13-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund to Koblenz, Heidelberg, Cologne, Essen, and Hanover and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dortmund. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to LWL Industrial Museum Zollern. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dortmund, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,339 visitors.

German Football Museum is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,349 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,482 reviews.

Dortmund Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 15,486 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALEX Dortmund is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dortmund tonight.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Nürburg, Keldung, and Koblenz. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Koblenz, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Nürburg. 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 2 hours 17 min. Upon reaching Nürburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Nürburgring. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 35,289 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Eltz Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,041 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Koblenz. Koblenz offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Koblenz's best restaurants.

Discover the culinary delights of Koblenz by securing a reservation at Verbene. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. Alternatively, Piper's Corner Celtic Irish Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kaffeewirtschaft GmbH. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Koblenz tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Spökes offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dubai Shisha Lounge is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. EXCALIBUR - The Rock Cafe is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Koblenz, Braubach, and Speyer, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable fortress has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,199 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Koblenz, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Braubach. This drive usually takes around 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Marksburg, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable rocca has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,923 reviews.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Sonder Bar (Pinte), a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Destille, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Orange Cafe Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Heidelberg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Heidelberg Palace. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,117 reviews.

Next up is Heidelberger Marktplatz. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,651 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Old Bridge Heidelberg. This point of interest has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,389 reviews.

Heidelberg Zoo is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,439 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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french 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 Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Toddy Tapper, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Soul Bar Cologne. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cologne Zoological Garden, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 5,000,000 people visit it every year.

Old Market is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,740 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Chocolate Museum. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 36,704 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Cologne, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Cologne below.

As you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Servus Colonia Alpina, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Little Link, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 7 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 Brühl and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Phantasialand. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 89,377 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 1,750,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Brühl Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,389 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

Make Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Duisburg Zoo. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,129 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Essen. Essen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Schote is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. You could also check for a table at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Essen tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Südrock rock pub. Alternatively, go to gentleM, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Werden, Essen, and Bielefeld. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,866 visitors.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Werden.

Make Hügel Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,599 reviews.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hanover. 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Meteora, 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 Quarks Bar Hannover, 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 Guru, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hannover Tiergarten. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanover, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,269 visitors.

Hanover Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 26,767 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Eilenriede. Visitors have rated this urban forest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,347 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Hanover, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laatzen. Your travel time is around 17 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hanover Fairground is a great place to start. This performing arts center is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,899 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Dublin Inn, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder, 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hanover has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Hanover by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to SEA LIFE Hannover. This aquarium is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars from 8,476 visitors.

Berggarten is another popular attraction you could visit today. This botanical garden has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,252 visitors.

Herrenhausen Gardens is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,866 visitors.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Hanover. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Masa Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Hanover. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hanover at BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hanover tonight.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hanover. You have 1 night left in Hanover. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Landesmuseum Hannover your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,060 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Masch Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,348 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Markthalle Hannover is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 visitors.

When you’re finished at Markthalle Hannover, the perfect next stop is Market Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,619 reviews.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Hotel Hannover, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Beef and Reef beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Broyhan Haus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

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 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hamm and Sterkrade. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Hamm. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 57 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Maximilianpark Hamm, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,092 reviews.

Sterkrade’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hamm behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min. Sterkrade welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Gasometer Oberhausen. This much-appreciated gas holder is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

Next up is SEA LIFE Oberhausen. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 12,643 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund.

Enjoy a delicious meal at KLUBHAUS1249, a highly-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're eager to try something different, consider Atlantico Café, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at FOOD BROTHER. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

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