11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling north to Dortmund, Hanover, Hamburg, Bremen, and Essen

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 Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hofgarten. This locally appreciated park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Japanese Garden, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Nord Park, one of the most often recommended places to see in Düsseldorf. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this aquarium offers. Then, head to Schloss Benrath, a top-rated palace that adds another dimension to your day.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

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 1 vibrant destinations - Dortmund. 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.

Today’s agenda in Dortmund includes a museum, a park, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! German Football Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Westfalenpark, a notable park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hanover. Hanover offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Jante, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Votum, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. 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 Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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

Mönckebergstraße is a fantastic place you can explore today in Hamburg. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Hamburg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Elbe Philharmonic Hall is the perfect place to start. This concert hall is one of the most impressive places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to Miniatur Wunderland, an extraordinary museum, known for its visually striking 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 Hamburg Dungeon. This eye-catching haunted house is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find St. Nikolai Memorial. Visit these for an interesting touch 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 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Miller, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Copa Cabana Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fontenay Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 2 nights left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hamburg today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is St. Pauli Piers. This enchanting pier will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Elbe Tunnel and learn what makes this culturally significant historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Planten Un Blomen. After exploring the botanical garden, head to Hagenbeck Zoo. This interesting zoo is a highlight in Hamburg. As your day continues, stop by Stadtpark, known for its romantic features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Edelcurry, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Deichgraf Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tower Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Bar - By Henn offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Ciu` Die Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Michael's Church. This stunning church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Chilehaus, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its symbolic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Schwerin Castle. This awe-inspiring castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brücke 10, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Shiso Burger Hamburg, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Meyer Lansky's. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Chug Club offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bremen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hamburg today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Alte Liebe In Cuxhaven. This history-steeped pier will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bremerhaven Zoo and learn what makes this breathtaking zoo unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Aussichtsplattform Sail City. After exploring the observation deck, head to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. This notable science center is a highlight in Hamburg.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bremen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. 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 reserve a table at Hotel Robben, an iconic dining spot in Bremen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, a popular restaurant in Bremen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Market Hall Eight Bremen, a hidden gem nestled in Bremen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rosso Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Red Rock, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Sammy`s Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 9 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 Bremen and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Bremen Roland, a historic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Town Musicians Of Bremen, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Schnoor. When you're finished at the street, Schloss Nordkirchen awaits your visit. This castle is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kettner's Kamota. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Südrock Rock Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gentlem, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Diamond Cocktail Lounge. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Essen. Your adventure starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This beloved laser tag arena is known for its breathtaking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Essen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Duisburg Zoo. This breathtaking zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is also worth visiting.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Pink Pepper delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Yoshi by Nagaya, acclaimed for its delectable japanese and sushi specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Le Flair, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for french and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Studio 1 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sakura Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Engel Rockbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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