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

Day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Cologne for 5 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Dortmund on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting park, Westfalenpark. Afterward, continue to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a botanical garden every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dortmund’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Phoenix-see. This up-and-coming lake is an essential stop. Following that, head to German Football Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern, an often recommended museum in the city.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cologne in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 5 nights.

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 symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Germany!

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

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Vorgebirgspark. This worthwhile park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Rhine Garden Sculpture, 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 Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Museum Ludwig, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Old Market is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Cologne, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across 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!

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a zoo, a market, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Japanese Garden Leverkusen and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cologne Zoological Garden, a mesmerizing zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fish Market, one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, 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 The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Keep the evening going at Suderman, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

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!

Start by visiting Rheinpark, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rheinboulevard, another must-visit landmark and intriguing boardwalk renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

We also recommend visiting Wallraf–richartz Museum, an underrated museum. Nearby, you'll also find Kolumba, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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 Cologne, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Cafe Riese Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bangkok Thai Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Servus Colonia Alpina. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

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

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

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cologne and visit amazing attractions in Cologne and Höningen destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Cologne. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Klettenberg Park, an intriguing park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Beethoven Park, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Äußerer Grüngürtel. This park is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Am Hornpottweg. After exploring the naturschutzgebiet, head to the beloved Wildlife Park Dünnwald.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Em Krützche, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, My Curry Wurst beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Délirium Café Cologne. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Germany promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Duisburg and drive in the direction of the city of Hamburg for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Hamburg, where you’ll stay for 5 nights.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Duisburg Zoo. This stunning zoo is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Duisburg Inner Harbour, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.

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

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and international menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Haerlin, known for its delicious creative french and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Hamburg is 100/200 Kitchen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

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.

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience 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 picture-perfect historical landmark is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Hamburg Harbor, another instagrammable 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 instagrammable 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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

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 Hamburg. The bars in Hamburg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Miller, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Copa Cabana Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fontenay Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hamburg, including a park, a maritime museum, an art gallery, a historical landmark, a concert hall and much more! Start your day with a visit to Wasserpark Dove-elbe. This intriguing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to International Maritime Museum Hamburg, which may be one of the most heritage-rich 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 Deichtorhallen, an underrated art gallery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Speicherstadt and Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

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.

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

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience 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!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Alsterfontaine. This worthwhile art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Chilehaus, a heritage-rich historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, an interesting museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Hamburger Kunsthalle. Round off your day at Stadtpark, another gem in Hamburg with eye-catching features to discover.

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 Brücke 10, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Shiso Burger Hamburg offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Meyer Lansky's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Chug Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a street, a city hall, a monument, a museum, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Alsterarkaden. This worthwhile street is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hamburg Townhall located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St. Nikolai Memorial. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Museum Für Hamburgische Geschichte. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this museum. Next up is Planten Un Blomen, a highly recommended botanical garden.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Das Feuerschiff LV 13, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Hamburg, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hotel Hafen Hamburg. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.

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.

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

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