Relaxed 11-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Cologne, and Hamburg

Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Muenster, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Muenster and begin your adventure in Germany.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Schlossplatz. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,366 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Muenster. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Muenster.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Ackermann, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Muenster.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Muenster and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Atelier provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Spooky's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Muenster as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Muenster. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Muenster. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Muenster!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. Lamberti (münster). This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,635 visitors.

Next, make your way to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,810 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,547 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Westphalian Horse Museum Münster Ggmbh. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,041 travelers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Muenster by booking a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Muenster, Coeur D'Artichaut shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french, and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Spitzner is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Muenster. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Eulen & Lerchen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The James, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Muenster!

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Bochum and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Essen and the city of Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 5 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muenster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bochum may take around 1 hour. Upon your arrival in Bochum, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,697 reviews.

German Mining Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,193 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Essen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bochum to Essen may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Essen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,211 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cologne. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french, and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern, and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Aachen, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Aachen will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aachen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 7 min. When you arrive in Aachen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Aachen Cathedral. This imperial cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Aachen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,481 visitors.

Elisenbrunnen is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,684 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Carolus Thermen. Visitors have rated this spa an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,446 reviews.

Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,979 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to book a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", 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 RheinZeit. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Cologne and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

Next up is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Old Market. This point of interest has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 reviews.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Make sure to book a table at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cologne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Suderman, known for its lively atmosphere.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Germany and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Duisburg and beyond. With 2 nights left in Cologne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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 3 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 visitors.

Duisburg Inner Harbour is also highly recommended by travelers. This inland port has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,519 visitors.

Rheinpark Duisburg is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,138 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Tiger & Turtle. This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,871 travelers.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation 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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Düsseldorf destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Cologne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Düsseldorf may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Düsseldorf, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Nord Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,034 reviews.

Next up is Japanese Garden. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,176 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. This aquarium has been rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 12,358 reviews.

Rheinturm is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This communication tower has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,916 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Schloss Benrath. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,705 reviews.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Em Krützche, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Délirium Café Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Link. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cologne.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Dortmund. 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 7 min. Upon reaching Dortmund, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Westfalenpark your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,451 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Dortmund Zoo. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Hamburg. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Hamburg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative, and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french, and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Hamburg. The bars in Hamburg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its inviting atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 visitors.

Elbe Tunnel is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Miniatur Wunderland is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a museum rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Planten Un Blomen, perhaps the most famous park in Hamburg. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Germany.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Hamburg, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen 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 Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Hamburg. The bars in Hamburg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Miller stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fontenay Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 10 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Bremerhaven. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Muenster, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bremerhaven. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Bremerhaven Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,713 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Aussichtsplattform Sail City. Aussichtsplattform Sail City is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 709 reviews.

Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,933 visitors.

In the city of Muenster, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

Exploring the food culture in Muenster offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at Altes Gasthaus Leve, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kleiner Kiepenkerl beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Rossini. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Muenster tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Muenster.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Muenster.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Muenster is the remarkable Buddenturm. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 214 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Muenster or just grab something light to keep you going.

Dine in style at Cafe & Bar Celona Münster, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Großer Kiepenkerl Gasthaus boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Muenster and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.