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

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Hanover and Laatzen. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Hanover, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Start your day at Herrenhausen Gardens. This enchanting botanical garden is a popular place to see in Hanover. Then, wander over to Market Church. If stunning sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Markthalle Hannover. This photogenic food market is a favorite among visitors.

Hanover offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Masch Park is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular exposition center.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Guru, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dublin Inn, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Altstadt-treff after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to My Way Cocktailbar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg, where will spend 3 nights.

Miniatur Wunderland leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most widely recognized places to visit in Hanover. Next, head to Speicherstadt, a locally appreciated historical landmark, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Alsterfontaine. This gorgeous art installation is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Hamburg Townhall and Mönckebergbrunnen. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, SuRolls offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, bona'me is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Hamburg. You have 2 nights left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most astonishing attractions included on the itinerary is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This gorgeous concert hall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hamburg Harbor and learn what makes this visually striking marina unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable St. Michael's Church. After exploring the church, head to Elbe Tunnel. This well-known historical landmark is a highlight in Hamburg. As your day continues, stop by St. Pauli Piers, known for its stunning features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the well-known Planten Un Blomen. Enjoy exploring this incredible botanical garden at your own pace.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

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

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Hamburg, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bremen.

Universum Science Center is an ideal stop early in the day. This increasingly popular science center is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bremen Town Hall (ensemble), which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hamburg 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 Town Musicians Of Bremen, a notable literary work in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bremen Roland and Schnoor.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Edelcurry, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Deichgraf Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Tower Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Black Forest Bar - By Henn offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Ciu` Die Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Cologne. 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 Hamburg, make sure to drop by Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, Köln - Edmund Renard. This beloved sculpture garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Museum Ludwig, one of the most underrated places to see in Hamburg. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rhine Garden Sculpture. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Old Market, a top-rated public square that adds another dimension to your day.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night.

Schildergasse is a fantastic place you can explore today in Cologne. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Cologne-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

No visit to Cologne is complete without Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This worthwhile point of interest is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Zoological Garden, 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 Rheinboulevard. This intriguing boardwalk is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Lindt Chocolate Museum, another key site on your sightseeing 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Frankfurt, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Experience Senckenberg Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in the city. Then, head to Palmengarten and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Iron Footbridge. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the captivating Römerberg. Not far away, you'll also find Frankfurt Cathedral. This church is a majestic highlight in Cologne. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Römer, an up-and-coming city hall in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. Check in and relax 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 Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Im Herzen Afrikas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Frankfurt.

Keep the evening going at Gute Stute, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gleis 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

A visit to Zeil is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Sachsenhausen as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.

Städel Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This beloved art museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to German Film Museum, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Frankfurt 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 Goethe House, an intriguing museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Alte Oper.

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 Frankfurt's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at Restaurant Lohninger, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Apfelwein Dax boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ariston Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Wake up to day 10 of your road trip in Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Heidelberg. With 1 night to stay in Frankfurt, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Hauptstraße is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Heidelberg, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Enjoy all that Philosophers’ Way has to offer. This is an increasingly popular hiking area you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Bridge Heidelberg, a locally renowned historical landmark in Frankfurt.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Heidelberger Marktplatz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kornmarkt, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Heidelberg Castle, a romantic place of interest in the city.

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

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

Dine in style at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chicago Meatpackers boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zum Gemalten Haus. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Frankfurt.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Rote Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Belfordfrankfurt offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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