11-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover to Dortmund, Cologne, Bremen, Hamburg, and Berlin and surrounding area

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Markthalle Hannover. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

Masch Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,391 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 reviews.

Berggarten is another outstanding experience in Hanover. Around 4,252 travelers have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Herrenhausen Gardens is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 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.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary, and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Vater&sohn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Loka Lounge Dortmund provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Central Bar & More Dortmund offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen, Werden, Königswinter, and Brühl, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Dortmund’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Werden. Your travel time is around 24 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Hügel Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,664 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 Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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 day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne, and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cologne Cathedral is a great place to start. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Cologne Cathedral attracts more than 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Old Market. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Lindt Chocolate Museum. The museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 visitors.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Hotel Robben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

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.

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

Make Elbe Philharmonic Hall your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Miniatur Wunderland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

St. Michael's Church is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

When you’re finished at St. Michael's Church, the perfect next stop is Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stadtpark. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Hamburg, 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 Hamburg below.

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 Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

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.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 2 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 162,714 visitors.

Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is another popular attraction you could visit today. This holocaust memorial has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 45,507 visitors.

Pergamon Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 1,298,000 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 29,292 visitors.

Berlin Cathedral is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,615 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is East Side Gallery. This art museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 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 Berlin 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 Berlin's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sharlie Cheen Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Curtain Club, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Berlin Wall Memorial one of your first sightseeing stops in Berlin. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,126 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Potsdamer Platz is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This square is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Topography Of Terror. This military museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,601 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Fernsehturm Berlin. A trip to this popular television tower is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.4 out of 5-star rating as given by 44,005 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Alexanderplatz. This square enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213,494 local and international travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Berlin. 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 BrewDog Berlin Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Booze Bar Berlin, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Victoria Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Berlin and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Berlin. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Großer Tiergarten, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 23,436 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Checkpoint Charlie. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 travelers.

Siegessäule is another must-visit attraction. This renowned victory column offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Berlin Zoological Garden. This well-loved zoo boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 63,593 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Charlottenburg Palace awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a château, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,831 previous visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hanover, 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 Hanover's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Jante, recognized for its delicious creative, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Votum, a local favorite known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Hanover. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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