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

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start your day with a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This notable botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eilenriede, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hanover 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 Hanover Park, a locally appreciated park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hanover Fairground.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Guru, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dublin Inn is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hanover tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Altstadt-treff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. My Way Cocktailbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Hanover on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved city hall, Hamburg Townhall. Afterward, continue to Miniatur Wunderland, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Hanover’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to International Maritime Museum Hamburg. This intriguing maritime museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Speicherstadt, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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 reserve a table at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of SuRolls, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of bona'me, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hamburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a concert hall, a marina, a church, a historical landmark, a pier, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This is an extraordinary concert hall you should not miss. Another must-see is Hamburg Harbor, an underrated marina in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to St. Michael's Church. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Elbe Tunnel, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at St. Pauli Piers, a visually striking place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Planten Un Blomen to your itinerary. This popular botanical garden offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Hamburg.

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 Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

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

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

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

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Bremen Town Hall (ensemble), an underrated city hall that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Schnoor. This street is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hamburg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Universum Science Center.

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

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Tower Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Black Forest Bar - By Henn offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Ciu` Die Bar. 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This underrated museum is an eye-catching place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, an eye-catching botanical garden with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Münster. This increasingly popular palace offers a history-steeped encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Schlossplatz 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 Cologne, 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse 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 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.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating museum, Lindt Chocolate Museum. Afterward, continue to Rhine Garden Sculpture, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Old Market. This well-known public square is an essential stop. Following that, head to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Museum Ludwig, an underrated museum in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Rheinboulevard, an awe-inspiring boardwalk that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the 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.

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

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soul Bar Cologne. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Don’t miss Schildergasse in Cologne today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Cologne.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This beloved point of interest provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Ulrepforte, a photogenic monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Media Park Köln Mbh, an underrated cultural center. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the interesting Cologne Zoological Garden.

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 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.

Dine in style at Limani, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Suderman. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Goethe House. This eye-catching museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Römerberg, a must-visit public square 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 Iron Footbridge, a captivating monument. For a change of scene, check out German Film Museum, known for its history-steeped features.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe Riese Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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