11-Day Germany Road Trip from Hamburg traveling west to Hanover, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Koblenz, Düsseldorf, and Muenster

Say hello to Hamburg! 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 Hamburg for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Hamburg 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 Chilehaus 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 Hamburg. 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 Hamburg. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore 100/200 Kitchen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Copa Cabana Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,649 visitors.

Miniatur Wunderland is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 87,297 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Hamburg Dungeon. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,598 reviews.

St. Michael's Church is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a church rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,173 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Stadtpark, perhaps the most famous park in Hamburg. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,534 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. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Germany by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hamburg. 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 book a table at Brücke 10, 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 Shiso Burger Hamburg, 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 Das Feuerschiff LV 13. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hamburg tonight.

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, CIU` DIE BAR offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Meyer Lansky's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. Pauli Piers is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,128 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Planten un Blomen. The park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 21,983 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Tierpark Hagenbeck. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,629 reviews.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This extraordinary naturpark has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,465 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Hanover. Hanover offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hanover. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Meteora, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Quarks Bar Hannover, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Guru, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sternwarte offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Kassel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 visitors.

Next, make your way to Hanover Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,767 visitors.

Kassel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hanover behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 51 min. Kassel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Karlsaue. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,131 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Gustav in Frankfurt by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Gustav offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Lafleur, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Erno's Bistro, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional classic french and modern menu.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gleis 25 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 5 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 Frankfurt. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,391 visitors.

When you’re finished at Römerberg, head to Iron Footbridge. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,044 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,563 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Alte Oper. This concert hall is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,371 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Palmengarten. This famous botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,050 travelers.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sonder Bar (Pinte), known for its lively atmosphere. Destille is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Orange Cafe Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Heidelberg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Heidelberg Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 visitors.

When you’re finished at Heidelberg Palace, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,651 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Old Bridge Heidelberg. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Heidelberg Zoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,439 visitors.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Heidelberg, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Heidelberg below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Weinstube Schnitzelbank, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider urban kitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Trattoria Toscana. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Lenox Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. P11 Café Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Karl is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Speyer, Nürburg, and Koblenz. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Koblenz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Heidelberg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Speyer may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Speyer, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Technic Museum Speyer. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 23,991 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Speyer, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nürburg. Your travel time is around 2 hours 25 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Nürburgring, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,289 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. Koblenz offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Koblenz's best restaurants.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Verbene, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Koblenz at Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub, 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 Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Koblenz tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Spökes, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, EXCALIBUR - The Rock Cafe is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Brühl and Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Koblenz 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 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Phantasialand. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 89,377 visitors and gets around 1,750,000 visits every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brühl and set your GPS to Cologne. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Cologne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 reviews. Usually, around 5,000,000 people visit Cologne Cathedral every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,118 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds , 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Auberge Rock Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Engel Rockbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Duisburg, Sterkrade, and Hamm, 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 Muenster. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Duisburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Duisburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,129 reviews.

Continue your journey at Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,756 travelers from near and far.

After soaking in Duisburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gasometer Oberhausen. This extraordinary gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,121 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, 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 Muenster.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Muenster by securing a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Spitzner, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Muenster. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Atelier, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Spooky's, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Osnabrück, Cloppenburg, and Ostrittrum. 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 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Osnabrück. This car ride takes around 46 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Osnabrück Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 17,728 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cloppenburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 4 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cloppenburg beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Museumsdorf Cloppenburg - Lower Saxony open air museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,570 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Hamburg. Hamburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hamburg. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Heimathafen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hanoi Deli Rathaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Chug Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Le Lion • Bar de Paris is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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 11 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hamburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Hamburg’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany. Keep the spirit of your trip to Germany alive with these special souvenirs.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Townhall. This city hall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,211 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at estancia steaks, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Brooklyn Burger Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss ALEX Hamburg.

You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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!