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

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

Today's adventure in Düsseldorf promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Hofgarten. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Japanese Garden, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Nord Park, one of the city’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its detailed features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This instagrammable aquarium is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Schloss Benrath, a locally renowned palace, and take a stroll around the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dortmund. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dortmund. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start by visiting German Football Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Westfalenpark, another must-visit landmark and well-known park renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Dortmund by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Dortmund Zoo also adds charm to your journey.

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Seña, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sternwarte is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Dormero Hotel Hannover ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Mönckebergstraße, a must-see street in Hamburg. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hamburg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an astonishing concert hall in the city. Then, head to Miniatur Wunderland and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Hamburg and when you are ready for more, go to Hamburg Dungeon. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the haunted house, visit the often recommended St. Nikolai Memorial.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Miller stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fontenay Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Start by visiting St. Pauli Piers, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable pier is sure to impress. Next on your list is Elbe Tunnel, another must-visit landmark and notable historical landmark renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Hamburg by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Planten Un Blomen. This romantic botanical garden is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Hagenbeck Zoo also adds charm to your journey, and Stadtpark wraps up your day with its romantic appeal.

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 Edelcurry, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Deichgraf Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tower Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Greet day 7 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Hamburg for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hamburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

Immerse yourself in Hamburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at St. Michael's Church. This picture-perfect church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Chilehaus, a frequently visited historical landmark. For a change of scene, check out Schwerin Castle, known for its visually striking features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Brücke 10, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Shiso Burger Hamburg beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Meyer Lansky's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Chug Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 8 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 Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Alte Liebe In Cuxhaven. This interesting pier is a visually striking place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Bremerhaven Zoo, a gorgeous zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Aussichtsplattform Sail City. This underrated observation deck offers a romantic encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hamburg.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a highly-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

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

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

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

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bremen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Bremen is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Bremen. Next, head to Bremen Roland, an underrated monument, known for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

Meanwhile, Schnoor adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Schloss Nordkirchen, a visually striking castle in Bremen.

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

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 evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Düsseldorf. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Essen, including a museum, a laser tag arena, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This popular museum is a must-visit in the city.

One of the best things about exploring Essen 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 Duisburg Zoo, a notable zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french and contemporary menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Studio 1 offer a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sakura Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Engel Rockbar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!