11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Hamburg and Cologne and surrounding area

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Hanover, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Begin your adventure at Herrenhausen Gardens. This is a popular botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Eilenriede, an increasingly popular park in Hanover.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hanover Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Hanover Fairground, another of the city’s intriguing attractions.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Guru, a highly-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dublin Inn, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Altstadt-treff, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, My Way Cocktailbar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hanover, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Hamburg Townhall, an underrated city 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 Hanover, and when you are ready for more, go to International Maritime Museum Hamburg. This is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing standout spots of interest. After exploring the maritime museum, visit the up-and-coming Speicherstadt.

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.

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 Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider SuRolls, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at bona'me. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Hamburg covers several incredible sights, including a concert hall, a marina, a church, a historical landmark, a pier, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This extraordinary concert hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Hamburg Harbor, a must-see marina in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to St. Michael's Church. This interesting church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Elbe Tunnel, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to St. Pauli Piers and Planten Un Blomen. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Bremen Town Hall (ensemble) is must-visit city hall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Town Musicians Of Bremen, an interesting literary work, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Schnoor, an awe-inspiring street, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Edelcurry, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Deichgraf Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Keep the evening going at Tower Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Black Forest Bar - By Henn, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Ciu` Die Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Muenster. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hamburg, including a museum, a botanical garden, a palace, a public square and much more! Start your day at Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This photogenic museum is a beloved place to see in Hamburg. Then, wander over to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. If stunning sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Schloss Münster. This history-steeped palace is a favorite among visitors.

Hamburg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Schlossplatz is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse 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 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 3 nights left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Rhine Garden Sculpture, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Old Market, a well-known public square. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the spectacular Cologne Cathedral. Not far away from the church, you will find the gorgeous Rheinboulevard, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Museum Ludwig, another gem in Cologne with eye-catching features to discover.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RheinZeit. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. 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 Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ulrepforte.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Media Park Köln Mbh. Cologne Zoological Garden is also worth visiting.

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 explore more of Cologne, 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 delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Suderman after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne 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 Frankfurt.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Goethe House. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Römerberg and learn what makes this enchanting public square unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Iron Footbridge. After exploring the monument, head to German Film Museum. This intriguing museum is a highlight in Cologne.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Cafe Riese Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bangkok Thai Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Servus Colonia Alpina. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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