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

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

To truly experience Frankfurt, make sure to drop by Römerberg. This popular public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Iron Footbridge, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Zoo Frankfurt, one of the most popular places to see in Frankfurt. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Palmengarten. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this botanical garden offers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Keldung, Koblenz, and Glees. With 1 night to stay in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Visiting Eltz Castle is always a good idea. This notable castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a must-see castle in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Deutsches Eck. This notable monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Maria Laach Abbey, where you can take in picture-perfect features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soul Bar Cologne, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Cologne and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Cologne is complete without Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Lindt Chocolate Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Phantasialand. This spectacular amusement park is a traveler-favorite.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern 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 Kettner's Kamota, a top local spot known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Essen and Muenster. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Hamburg, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Let Unesco-welterbe Zollverein set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect museum before continuing your journey. Shaft Xii is your next stop. This frequently visited museum is one of the best-rated sights in Essen.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Red Dot Design Museum. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Schlossplatz.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Haerlin, renowned for its delicious creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night.

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.

St. Pauli Piers brings Hamburg's character to life. This romantic pier is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Elbe Tunnel, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. Michael's Church, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Miniatur Wunderland. This photogenic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a top-rated concert hall, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Berlin.

A top thing to do today is to explore Mitte, a must-see neighborhood in Berlin. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Kurfürstendamm, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

No visit to Berlin is complete without Brandenburg Gate. This timeless monument is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Berlin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Berlin Zoological Garden. This spectacular zoo is a traveler-favorite.

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 Berlin's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a highly-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Curtain Club provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Berlin. You have 1 night left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most interesting attractions included on the itinerary is Berlin Wall Memorial. This picture-perfect war memorial will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Berlin Cathedral and learn what makes this culturally significant church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally renowned Fernsehturm Berlin. After exploring the observation deck, head to Alexanderplatz. This iconic public square is a highlight in Berlin. As your day continues, stop by East Side Gallery, known for its picture-perfect features.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Berlin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Restaurant Marjellchen, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Berlin tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Booze Bar Berlin. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Victoria Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Berlin are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Checkpoint Charlie is an ideal stop early in the day. This spectacular historical landmark 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 eye-catching 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 Potsdamer Platz, an astonishing public square in the city.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Jante, renowned for its delectable creative and modern 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 Votum, 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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hanover.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Seña, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sternwarte, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Dormero Hotel Hannover likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!