11-Day Germany Road Trip from Düsseldorf traveling north to Dortmund, Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 2 nights 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 Burgplatz or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Düsseldorf. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Dine in style at Brewery Schumacher, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Brewery im Füchschen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The ASH Düsseldorf. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

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

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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This much-appreciated aquarium is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,358 reviews.

Next up is Nord Park. This park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,034 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Japanese Garden. This park has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,176 reviews.

Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,015 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Schloss Benrath. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

Your discoveries in Düsseldorf do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Düsseldorf on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Studio 1 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sakura Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Engel Rockbar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Sterkrade, and Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sterkrade, 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 Düsseldorf to Sterkrade may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sterkrade, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gasometer Oberhausen is a great place to start. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,693 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sea Life Oberhausen. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 12,844 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Sterkrade, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,211 reviews.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

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.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary, and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Vater&sohn after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Loka Lounge Dortmund, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is German Football Museum. Previous visitors have rated this sports museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,503 reviews.

Westfalenpark is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,451 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,572 reviews.

Dortmund Zoo is another outstanding experience in Dortmund. Around 15,732 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars.

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 Hanover. Hanover 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 Hanover's best restaurants.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Hanover by securing a table at Handwerk. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Jante, famous for its scrumptious creative, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Votum, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative, and modern cuisine in Hanover. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative, and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Seña, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sternwarte is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover, Friedrichseck, 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 4 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors.

After soaking in Hanover’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Friedrichseck. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Friedrichseck, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Heide Park is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 57,821 visitors.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative, and international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french, and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, 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 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Sierksdorf, and Hamburg. You still have 3 nights left in Hamburg.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Hamburg Townhall. This city hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,325 reviews.

Continue your journey at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 travelers from near and far.

Set your GPS to Sierksdorf and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sierksdorf beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hansa Park. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,242 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hamburg.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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

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 7 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.

Kick off the day at St. Pauli Piers, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Elbe Tunnel. Elbe Tunnel is a road tunnel with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews.

St. Michael's Church is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Hamburg Dungeon, a famous museum in Hamburg. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 travelers.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Edelcurry, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, 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 Deichgraf Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hamburg tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tower Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Ciu` Die Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Journey into the unknown at Planten Un Blomen, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Hagenbeck Zoo is a recommended place to visit. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,852 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Hamburg is Stadtpark. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,877 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Hamburg offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Schwerin Castle. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,205 visitors.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brücke 10, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Shiso Burger Hamburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Meyer Lansky's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Chug Club is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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

After soaking in Hamburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cuxhaven. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 12 min. When you arrive in Cuxhaven, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Alte Liebe In Cuxhaven. Previous visitors have rated this jetty an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,754 reviews.

Bremerhaven’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cuxhaven behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Bremerhaven welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aussichtsplattform Sail City. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 709 reviews.

Continue your journey at Bremerhaven Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,713 travelers from near and far.

Bremerhaven is also the home of Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,933 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bremen, 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 you explore more of Bremen, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Robben, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dorint City-Hotel Bremen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bremen.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rosso Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Red Rock provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Sammy`s Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 3 vibrant destinations - Nordkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Schloss Nordkirchen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,745 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Nordkirchen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gelsenkirchen. Your travel time is around 54 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nordstern Park. This park is rated an average of 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 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.

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

Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Konditorei Heinemann beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sausalitos Dusseldorf. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hofgarten. This extraordinary english garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 visitors.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Okinii Düsseldorf City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Julio is another top choice with a popular menu.

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!