12-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne to Bielefeld, Hamburg, Berlin, Hanover, and Düsseldorf

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 vibrant destinations - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bielefeld. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Each year, around 5,000,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Rheinpark. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,479 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 travelers.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Die Villa offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Three Sixty Bielefeld is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cutie is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover, and Munster. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bielefeld and set your GPS to Hanover. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Hanover, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,178 visitors.

Hanover Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Munster. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like German Tank Museum. This extraordinary military museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,810 visitors. Each year, around 85,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative, and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french, and classic dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore 100/200 Kitchen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hamburg, and Potsdam. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Journey into the unknown at Planten Un Blomen, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Miniatur Wunderland is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Hamburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Potsdam. Your travel time is around 2 hours 58 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sanssouci Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,286 reviews.

Continue your journey at Sanssouci. This palace is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 travelers from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Berlin, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Rutz in Berlin by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Rutz delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at FACIL, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Monkey Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Saint Jean, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Green Door Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 3 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pergamon Museum. This art museum gets 1,298,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 29,292 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,005 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Alexanderplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to East Side Gallery. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Savor the flavors at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Berlin TV Tower. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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

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

Potsdamer Platz is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 visitors.

Topography Of Terror is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This military museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,601 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is German Museum Of Technology. This technology museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,609 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Berlin has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Berlin offers and add your favorites to your Germany travel package below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Booze Bar Berlin, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Victoria Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Treptower Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,355 reviews.

Checkpoint Charlie is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 83,167 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche is another outstanding experience in Berlin. Around 21,717 travelers have rated this church building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Berlin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Curry 61, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gasthaus Krombach is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SOY. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Berlin tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Franken Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Mikkeller Berlin provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Limonadier Cocktailbar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,126 visitors.

Großer Tiergarten is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,436 visitors.

Siegessäule is also highly recommended by travelers. This victory column has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,706 visitors.

Charlottenburg Palace is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,831 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Gardens Of Charlottenburg Palace. This castle park has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,193 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern, and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Jante, renowned for its delicious creative, and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Votum, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative, and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Seña, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sternwarte is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 Gelsenkirchen, and Essen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Nordstern Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,453 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Essen. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Kokerei Zollverein. Previous visitors have rated this coke plant an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,111 reviews.

Red Dot Design Museum is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This design museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,831 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese, and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french, and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Duisburg, Königswinter, and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Düsseldorf to Duisburg may take around 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Duisburg Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,434 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Königswinter. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

Make Schloss Drachenburg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french, and seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern, and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!