11-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Essen, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, and Bremen and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Muenster and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Muenster for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Muenster 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 Schlossplatz or 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 Muenster. 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 in Muenster. 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 Restaurant Ackermann, a highly-rated dining destination in Muenster. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Muenster this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, known for its inviting atmosphere. Atelier is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Spooky's provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Germany!

On day 2 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 Muenster. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. -paulus-dom (münster) is a great place to start. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,912 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,810 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. The museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,547 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Dyckburg-kirche (münster). This church building is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 192 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 Essen. Essen 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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern, and classic cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Südrock Rock Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gentlem is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kokerei Zollverein. This coke plant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,111 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Krupp-park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,130 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 1 hour 11 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phantasialand. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews. Each year, 1,750,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cologne, 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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

Kick off the day at Old Market, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Cologne Cathedral. Cologne Cathedral is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 reviews. Attracting more than 5,000,000 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese, and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french, and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Engelchen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Cherie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Düsseldorf, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinturm. This communication tower is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Düsseldorf, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,916 visitors.

Schloss Benrath is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,705 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Tiger & Turtle. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,871 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Studio 1, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sakura Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Engel Rockbar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sterkrade, and Gelsenkirchen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sterkrade. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Gasometer Oberhausen one of your first sightseeing stops in Sterkrade. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,693 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Sea Life Oberhausen is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This aquarium is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 12,844 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gelsenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nordstern Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,453 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 Hamburg. Hamburg 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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative, and international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Haerlin is one of the best restaurants for creative french, and classic cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at 100/200 Kitchen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see St. Pauli Piers. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,508 visitors.

Elbe Tunnel is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This road tunnel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 travelers.

Hamburg is also the home of St. Michael's Church. Around 20,524 people have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Miniatur Wunderland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 89,283 reviews, a visit to this museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Hamburg is also your chance to admire Hamburg Dungeon. This must-visit museum enjoys an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Hamburg on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones 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.

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hamburg tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Miller, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Copa Cabana Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fontenay Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bremen. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Elbe Philharmonic Hall one of your first sightseeing stops in Hamburg. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Planten Un Blomen is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical Of University Hamburg. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,097 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Hagenbeck Zoo. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 37,852 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Stadtpark. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 local and international travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bremen, 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 Bremen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rosso Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Red Rock offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Sammy`s Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

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

When you’ve had your share of Bremen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Hauen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 52 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Pilsum Lighthouse. This lighthouse is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,274 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hauen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Greetsiel. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hafen Greetsiel. Previous visitors have rated this real estate agency an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,067 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Greetsiel, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Norden may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Norden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schlosspark Lütetsburg (eingang/ausgang). This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Norden, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,152 visitors.

Seehundstation Nationalpark-haus is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,954 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, an iconic dining spot in Bremen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Jürgenshof, a popular restaurant in Bremen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bremen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Wohnzimmer Bremen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, König Lounge offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bremen. Cottons Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 10 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 Bremen, and Bremerhaven. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Town Musicians Of Bremen. This literary work is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bremen, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,109 visitors.

Schnoor is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,546 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bremen and set your GPS to Bremerhaven. 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 48 min. Upon reaching Bremerhaven, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Bremerhaven Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 15,713 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,933 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Muenster. 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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Eulen & Lerchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The James, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Day 11 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Muenster before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Muenster's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stadthafen. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,727 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Muenster.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kleiner Kiepenkerl, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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!