Relaxed 13-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne and Hamburg

On day 2 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Today's adventure in Dortmund promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Westfalenpark. This romantic park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Rombergpark Botanical Garden, another masterful attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Phoenix-see, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of German Football Museum. This respected museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern, a frequently visited museum, and take a stroll around the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Germany at Cologne. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cologne, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Vorgebirgspark. This beloved park is an instagrammable place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Rhine Garden Sculpture, a visually striking park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This famous church offers a breathtaking encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Museum Ludwig to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Old Market, a notable public square that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Cologne offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cologne. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soul Bar Cologne, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Cologne, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a botanical garden, a zoo, a market, a museum and much more! Start your day at Japanese Garden Leverkusen. This awe-inspiring botanical garden is an underrated place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Zoological Garden. If breathtaking sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Fish Market. This instagrammable market is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Lindt Chocolate Museum is an interesting spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Limani, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cologne and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Suderman, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Cologne can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Cologne!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the frequently visited Rheinpark, a serene park in Cologne. Next, go to Rheinboulevard.

Wallraf–richartz Museum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Kolumba, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Cologne.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cologne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cologne that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Cologne to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cologne has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe Riese Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bangkok Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Servus Colonia Alpina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cologne’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cologne!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Germany and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Cologne and beyond. With 1 night left in Cologne, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start your day at Klettenberg Park. This romantic park is a locally appreciated place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Beethoven Park. If majestic sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Äußerer Grüngürtel. This mesmerizing park is a favorite among visitors.

Cologne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Am Hornpottweg is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the naturschutzgebiet, don’t forget to check out the stunning Wildlife Park Dünnwald. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile wildlife reserve in Cologne.

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

Exploring the food culture in Cologne offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Em Krützche, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, My Curry Wurst offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Délirium Café Cologne is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cologne. The bars in Cologne make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cologne as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 5 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Duisburg Zoo is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning zoo before continuing your journey. Duisburg Inner Harbour is your next stop. This up-and-coming marina is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This picture-perfect park is a sight to behold.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Hamburg. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Hamburg offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Haerlin is one of the best restaurants for creative french and classic cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at 100/200 Kitchen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Hamburg and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 8 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Elbe Tunnel. This historic historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Hamburg Harbor, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St. Michael's Church, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its historic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Miniatur Wunderland. This picture-perfect museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Hamburg Dungeon, a notable haunted house, and take a stroll around the area.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Hamburg, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Hamburg and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cafe Miller. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fontenay Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Hamburg as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Hamburg, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Wasserpark Dove-elbe is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to International Maritime Museum Hamburg, a curiosity-inducing maritime museum, known for its photogenic 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 Deichtorhallen. This eye-catching art gallery offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Speicherstadt adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a romantic concert hall in Hamburg.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Hamburg offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Hamburg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Edelcurry, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Deichgraf Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Hamburg and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tower Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Bar - By Henn, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Ciu` Die Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Hamburg!

Immerse yourself in Hamburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Alsterfontaine. This enchanting art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of Chilehaus, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, an interesting museum. For a change of scene, check out Hamburger Kunsthalle, known for its standout features.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Hamburg offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brücke 10, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Shiso Burger Hamburg is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Hamburg.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Meyer Lansky's. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Chug Club, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 11 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Alsterarkaden, a curiosity-inducing street that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hamburg Townhall, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at St. Nikolai Memorial. This monument is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hamburg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Museum Für Hamburgische Geschichte. After exploring the museum, head to the well-known Planten Un Blomen. This botanical garden will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Hamburg. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Hamburg that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Hamburg to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Das Feuerschiff LV 13, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Hamburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hotel Hafen Hamburg is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Dacaio Hamburg, known for its lively atmosphere. Café May is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Jahreszeiten Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!