12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, Leipzig, Munich, and Stuttgart

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Prepare for a day full of a beautiful, a stunning, an instagrammable, a romantic, a grand, and a standout. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This worthwhile wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rheinpromenade, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, one of the most underrated places to see in Düsseldorf. This boardwalk is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinturm. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this observation deck offers. Finally, take the path to the underrated Kaiserpfalz Kaiserswerth, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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 Düsseldorf. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Le Flair, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite french and contemporary menu. With a 1-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 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.

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

On day 3 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 Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Oberhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Essen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Essen beckons with new experiences!

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a locally renowned museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Gelsenkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Nordstern Park. Spend some time admiring the symbolic features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Oberhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oberhausen beckons with new experiences!

Gasometer Oberhausen is a popular museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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, Hamburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hamburg today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Planten Un Blomen. This idyllic botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Elbe Tunnel and learn what makes this culturally significant historical landmark unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the widely recognized Elbe Philharmonic Hall. After exploring the concert hall, head to Miniatur Wunderland. This top-rated museum is a highlight in Hamburg. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the captivating Hamburg Dungeon. Enjoy exploring this incredible haunted house at your own pace.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Berlin by booking a table at Rutz. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover FACIL, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Monkey Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Saint Jean, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Green Door Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Berlin, including a park, a war memorial, a church, a public square, a street art, a monument and much more! Start your day at Mauerpark. This eye-catching park is a notable place to see in Berlin. Then, wander over to Berlin Wall Memorial. If historic sites excite you, this war memorial will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Berlin Cathedral. This stunning church is a favorite among visitors.

Berlin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Alexanderplatz is a timeless spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the historic East Side Gallery. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this extraordinary street art in Berlin.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Berlin TV Tower. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Berlin tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sharlie Cheen Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Berlin Icebar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Curtain Club also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Berlin today. One of the most famous attractions included on the itinerary is Berlin Zoological Garden. This breathtaking zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Siegessäule and learn what makes this detailed monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Großer Tiergarten. After exploring the park, head to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This well-known monument is a highlight in Berlin. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the astonishing Potsdamer Platz. Enjoy exploring this incredible public square at your own pace.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Marjellchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Keep the evening going at Booze Bar Berlin, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Victoria Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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 Berlin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leipzig, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Berlin, including a museum and a palace. Start your day with a visit to Pergamon Museum. This notable museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Topography Of Terror, which may be one of the most respected places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Berlin 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 Charlottenburg Palace, one of the city’s most notable palace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leipzig. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Leipzig. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Kuultivo, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Stadtpfeiffer, known for its delicious creative and modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Leipzig is Frieda, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Mephisto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brick's Der Cocktail, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Skala. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 2 vibrant destinations - Leipzig and Regensburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Munich. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Leipzig, featuring a picture-perfect, a respected, an awe-inspiring, and a grand. Start at Marktplatz Leipzig, a popular public square in the city. Then, head to Monument To The Battle Of The Nations and soak in the ambiance of this respected monument.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Regensburg. This car ride takes around 3 hours 30 min.

Old Stone Bridge is a captivating historical landmark we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 Munich. Munich 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 Munich's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Munich by securing a reservation at Atelier. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit EssZimmer, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Alois - Dallmayr Fine Dining, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Garçon, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Zephyr Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Holy Spirit 1 Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Munich, 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 Stuttgart. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with a charming, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a respected, and a symbolic in Munich. Begin your sightseeing with Marienplatz. This wondrous public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Viktualienmarkt, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Munich, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Deutsches Museum. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Stachus, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Nymphenburg Palace and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most well-known attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Stuttgart, 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 Stuttgart. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Stuttgart by securing a reservation at Der Zauberlehrling. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Speisemeisterei, celebrated for its delectable creative and innovative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Ritzi Gourmet, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Petit Coq, known for its lively atmosphere. Jigger & Spoon is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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