12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Bielefeld, Hamburg, and Hanover

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Cologne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bielefeld, where will spend 2 nights.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit landmark and astonishing church renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Japanese Garden Leverkusen, a beloved botanical garden.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at GlückundSeligkeit, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? New Orleans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Knigge. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bielefeld.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Die Villa, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Three Sixty Bielefeld offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cutie provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bielefeld has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bielefeld.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the popular Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Botanical Garden, a stunning botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sparrenberg Castle, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Laserzone Lasertag Bielefeld. When you're finished at the laser tag arena, Obersee awaits your visit. This lake is an instagrammable highlight on today's itinerary.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bielefeld. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Nichtschwimmer, a top-rated dining destination in Bielefeld. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BRASSERIE Bielefeld, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Osteria Bielefeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bielefeld this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Extra Blues Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Café Wunderbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Faces Lounge & Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 3 nights.

Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

To truly experience Hamburg, make sure to drop by St. Pauli Piers. This captivating pier is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Elbe Tunnel, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Panoptikum, one of the most popular places to see in Hamburg. This wax museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, St. Michael's Church. Wander around and soak in the breathtaking atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a top-rated concert hall that adds another dimension to your day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Hamburg is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Hamburg is brimming with adventures.

Your adventure in Hamburg is only getting started when you visit Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hamburg Dungeon. This well-known haunted house is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Miniatur Wunderland. This eye-catching museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Hagenbeck Zoo is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hamburg's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Edelcurry, 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 Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, 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 Deichgraf Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Tower Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Bar - By Henn, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

No visit to Hamburg is complete without St. Nikolai Memorial. This underrated monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Hamburg Townhall, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Hamburger Kunsthalle. This locally appreciated art gallery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Planten Un Blomen, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Stadtpark is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brücke 10, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Shiso Burger Hamburg is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Meyer Lansky's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Chug Club is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Hamburg and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hanover has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Hanover.

Hanover Zoo is an ideal stop early in the day. This captivating zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Eilenriede, which may be one of the most peaceful places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hanover on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Markthalle Hannover, an underrated food market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Market Church.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Guru, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Dublin Inn? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Hanover and Laatzen.

Catch Herrenhausen Gardens before the crowds roll in. This visually striking botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Berggarten, a must-visit botanical garden in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Sea Life Hannover, an intriguing aquarium. For a change of scene, check out Masch Park, known for its peaceful features. We also recommend visiting Hanover Fairground. This exposition center is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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

Hanover is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hanover.

Make sure to reserve a table at Masa Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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