11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, and Nuremberg
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 11-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Hanover, Hamburg, Lübeck, Berlin, Potsdam, Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Kassel.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, 3 nights in Berlin, 1 night in Dresden, and 2 nights in Nuremberg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Hanover, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland, learn more about the unique Elbe Philharmonic Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Potsdamer Platz.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Hamburg, Lübeck, Berlin, Potsdam, Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Kassel, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Hanover
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Hanover - Arrival day
- More
- Kramerstraße
- More
Say hello to Hanover! 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 Hanover for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Hanover 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 Kramerstraße, a must-see street, and 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 Hanover. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Meteora, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Añejo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Quarks Bar Hannover. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hanover
- Hamburg
- More
Drive 156 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Elbphilharmonie
- Hamburger Hafen
- St Michael's Church
- Inner Alster
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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 2 nights.
Hanover is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a concert hall, a marina, a church, a lake and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Elbe Philharmonic Hall and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hamburg Harbor, an instagrammable marina that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to St. Michael's Church, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Inner Alster.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, SuRolls is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at bona'me. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Hamburg
- More
Drive 142 km, 2 hours 45 min
- Elbe Tunnel
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Speicherstadt
- Mönckebergbrunnen
- Marzipanmuseum Niederegger
- Café Niederegger - Stammhaus
- More
On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Hamburg on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating historical landmark, Elbe Tunnel. Afterward, continue to Miniatur Wunderland, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Hamburg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Speicherstadt. This often recommended historical landmark is an essential stop. Following that, head to Mönckebergbrunnen, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Marzipanmuseum Niederegger, an underrated museum in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Café Niederegger - Stammhaus, an eye-catching restaurant that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hamburg and your accommodation.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Miller. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Copa Cabana Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Hamburg
- Berlin
- More
Drive 298 km, 3 hours 53 min
- Alexanderplatz
- Fernsehturm Berlin
- East Side Gallery
- Brandenburg Gate
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Berlin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Berlin. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Alexanderplatz. This wondrous public square provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fernsehturm Berlin, a stunning observation deck, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to East Side Gallery, a top-rated street art. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the world-famous Brandenburg Gate.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berlin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Berlin, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at NENI Berlin, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Alt-Berliner Wirtshaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Steglitz International. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Monkey Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Saint Jean is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Green Door Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Berlin
- More
Drive 17 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Charlottenburg Palace
- Reichstag
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- Potsdamer Platz
- Topography of Terror
- Kreuzberg
- More
Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kreuzberg, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Berlin. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Berlin on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned palace, Charlottenburg Palace. Afterward, continue to Reichstag Building, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.
As you explore Berlin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This notable monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Potsdamer Platz, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Topography Of Terror, a well-known museum in the city.
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 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 Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, 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 Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, 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 Berlin TV Tower, 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 culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Sharlie Cheen Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Curtain Club 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!
Day 6
- Berlin
- More
Drive 75 km, 2 hours 15 min
- Charlottenhof Palace
- Sanssouci Palace
- Brandenburg Gate
- Victory Column
- Großer Tiergarten
- Kurfürstendamm
- More
On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Berlin, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Berlin for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Potsdam and Berlin to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Kurfürstendamm, a street that captures the true essence of Potsdam. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the beloved Charlottenhof Palace, a visually striking palace in Berlin. Next, go to Sanssouci.
After visiting Charlottenhof Palace and Sanssouci, have a stroll along Berlin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Brandenburg Gate. This picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience. Siegessäule is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Großer Tiergarten, one of the most romantic places to visit in Berlin.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Berlin.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top-rated dining spot in Berlin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Marjellchen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Berlin.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Booze Bar Berlin after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Victoria Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 7
- Berlin
- Dresden
- More
Drive 194 km, 2 hours 36 min
- Zwinger
- Semperoper
- Brühl's Terrace
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dresden. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dresden, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the notable Zwinger, a history-steeped palace in Berlin. Next, go to Semperoper.
After visiting Zwinger and Semperoper, have a stroll along Berlin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Brühl's Terrace. This awe-inspiring public square offers a unique experience. Church Of Our Lady is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dresden's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Dresden. If you're in the mood for something new, try Luisenhof, Dresden, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bakery Wippler GmbH. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dresden.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Hebeda's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Blondes, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 8
- Dresden
- Nuremberg
- More
Drive 318 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
- Albrecht Dürer's House
- St Sebald - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg
- Schöner Brunnen
- More
On day 8 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 Nuremberg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Nuremberg, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Nuremberg Castle. This interesting castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Albrecht Dürer's House, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out St. Sebald Church - Sebalduskirche Nürnberg, one of the most underrated places to see in Dresden. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Schöner Brunnen. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this monument offers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Nuremberg, 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 Nuremberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Burgwächter, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Alte Küch'n & Im Keller offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOVINA HOTEL Südwestpark Nürnberg. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Irish Castle Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Mata Hari Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Undecided Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Head back to your accommodation in Nuremberg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 9
- Nuremberg
- More
Drive 187 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Unschlittplatz
- Street of Human Rights
- Handwerkerhof Nürnberg
- Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds
- Plönlein
- Medieval Crime Museum
- More
On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Nuremberg, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber. You still have 1 night left in Nuremberg.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Nuremberg today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Unschlittplatz. This instagrammable public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Street Of Human Rights and learn what makes this heritage-rich art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Handwerkerhof Nuremberg. After exploring the handicraft store, head to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds. This interesting museum is a highlight in Nuremberg. As your day continues, stop by Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), known for its visually striking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the beloved Medieval Crime Museum. Enjoy exploring this incredible museum at your own pace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Nuremberg and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Nuremberg's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Katzentempel Nürnberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? dasPaul Restaurant & Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zeit & Raum - vegetarisch & vegan. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Nuremberg.
Keep the evening going at Ludwigs Bar & Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bierwerk, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.
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 10
- Nuremberg
- Hanover
- More
Drive 493 km, 5 hours 45 min
- Hercules monument
- Natural History Museum
- Fridericianum
- More
On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Kassel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Nuremberg on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating monument, Hercules Monument, Kassel. Afterward, continue to Natural History Museum, a museum every traveler should visit.
As you explore Nuremberg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Fridericianum. This often recommended museum is an essential stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Guru, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dublin Inn, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Altstadt-treff, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, My Way Cocktailbar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 11
- Hanover - Departure day
- More
- Schillerdenkmal
- More
Day 11 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Friedrich Schiller. This worthwhile point of interest is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Hanover's best shopping area, Kropcke. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.
Dine in style at Masa Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.