13-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Dortmund, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Cologne, Essen, and Hamburg

Welcome to Hanover, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hanover is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Masch Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Hanover. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 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 Bar Añejo, 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 Quarks Bar Hannover, 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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Seña, known for its inviting atmosphere. Sternwarte is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Germany!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hanover for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hanover Zoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

Next, make your way to Market Church. This top attraction is a church building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,658 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Herrenhausen Gardens. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,178 travelers.

You can learn more about Hanover today by going on a tour. Hanover offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Guru, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dublin Inn beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Altstadt-treff, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, My Way Cocktailbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great 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 3 vibrant destinations - Porta Westfalica, Hamm, and Sterkrade. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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 Porta Westfalica. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Emperor William Monument. This kaiser william monuments is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,991 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Porta Westfalica, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hamm may take around 1 hour 13 min. Upon your arrival in Hamm, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Maximilianpark Hamm. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,289 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dortmund by securing a table at The Stage. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Grammons Restaurant, famous for its scrumptious contemporary, and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Vater&sohn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Loka Lounge Dortmund, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Central Bar & More Dortmund likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Bonn, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, and Königstein im Taunus. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Dortmund’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bonn. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive in Bonn, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rheinaue. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,543 visitors.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bonn behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Schloss Drachenburg. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french, and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gute Stute after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Gleis 25 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

When you're ready to see some sights, Römerberg is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,968 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Iron Footbridge. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,403 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Zoo Frankfurt. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 22,905 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Alte Oper. This concert hall is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,602 reviews.

Palmengarten is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this botanical garden, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,461 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sonder Bar (pinte) for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Bar Goodfellas is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Heidelberg. You have 1 night left in Heidelberg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,486 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,790 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Heidelberg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,663 visitors.

Your discoveries in Heidelberg do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Heidelberg on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Heidelberg. 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 reserve a table at Ristorante Santa Lucia, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of VINCIdue, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Essighaus, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Destille is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Orange Cafe Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Lenox 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 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 Speyer, and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Heidelberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Speyer. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Technik Museum Speyer is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 24,541 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 55 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Deutsches Eck. This headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 visitors.

Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is another popular attraction you could visit today. This fortress has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 visitors.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional french, and seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cologne, Ox & Klee shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern, and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, La Cuisine Rademacher is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in Cologne. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Old Market is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 visitors.

Cologne Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 5,000,000 people visit this top attraction every year. This catholic cathedral has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors.

Cologne Zoological Garden is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,676 reviews.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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 Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Brühl, and Duisburg, 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Phantasialand. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Attracting more than 1,750,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Phantasialand, head to Brühl Castle. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,548 reviews.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern, and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Keep the evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen, and Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Muenster, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Muenster may take around 1 hour 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Muenster, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Schlossplatz. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

When you’re finished at Schlossplatz, head to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,810 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hamburg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative, and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french, and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative, and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 11 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. Pauli Piers is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at St. Michael's Church. The church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 reviews.

Elbe Philharmonic Hall is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this concert hall, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Hamburg, 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 Hamburg below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

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

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

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Planten Un Blomen, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Stadtpark. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 travelers.

When you’ve had your share of Hamburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Friedrichseck. Your travel time is around 1 hour 5 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Heide Park. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 57,821 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.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Masa Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hanover tonight.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hanover’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Make Friedrich Schiller your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 160 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.

If you're eager to try something different, consider CALMA - Bar & Lounge Hannover, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!