13-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Essen, Cologne, Hanover, Berlin, and Hamburg

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Muenster, Nordkirchen, and Feldhausen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,810 reviews.

Set your GPS to Nordkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nordkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Schloss Nordkirchen. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,745 visitors.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Südrock Rock Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gentlem offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Essen. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen, Königswinter, and Brühl, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Unesco-welterbe Zollverein one of your first sightseeing stops in Essen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Red Dot Design Museum is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This design museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,831 reviews.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Schloss Drachenburg. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french, and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern, and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

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

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

On day 4 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 Cologne, and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Old Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors.

When you’re finished at Old Market, head to Cologne Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. Every year, approximately 5,000,000 travelers come here to experience the catholic cathedral for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 57 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 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 Hanover. Hanover 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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Handwerk offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Jante, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative, and modern 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 Votum, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative, and modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Seña, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sternwarte. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Treptower Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,355 reviews.

Continue your journey at Alexanderplatz. This square is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 travelers from near and far.

Berlin is also the home of Pergamon Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 29,292 visitors. Each year, around 1,298,000 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Berlin Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,615 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Gardens Of The World. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 19,167 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

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

As you explore more of Berlin, 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 Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berlin TV Tower, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Sharlie Cheen Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Berlin Icebar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Curtain Club, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 3 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Drop by the renowned Checkpoint Charlie. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 83,167 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Potsdamer Platz. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 60,557 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This holocaust memorial has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 45,507 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 63,593 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Charlottenburg Palace. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 25,831 travelers, this château is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Berlin.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Berlin. 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 BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Restaurant Marjellchen, 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 Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Berlin tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Booze Bar Berlin, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Victoria Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you're ready to see some sights, Mauerpark is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,433 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,126 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Topography Of Terror. The military museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,601 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,005 reviews.

East Side Gallery is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this art museum, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 54,103 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Berlin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Savor the flavors at Curry 61, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Gasthaus Krombach beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SOY. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Franken Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Mikkeller Berlin for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Limonadier Cocktailbar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche, a remarkable church building where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,717 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 162,714 travelers.

Berliner Philharmonie 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 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,681 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 Großer Tiergarten. This well-loved park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 23,436 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Siegessäule awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a victory column, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 previous visitors.

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 Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Misfit Bar Berlin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gas holder is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Park Plaza Wallstreet Berlin Mitte. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Berlin tonight.

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

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 visitors.

Miniatur Wunderland is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 visitors.

Hamburg Dungeon is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 visitors.

St. Michael's Church is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,524 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 Muenster. Muenster 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Muenster by securing a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, famous for its scrumptious modern french, and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Spitzner, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Muenster. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Eulen & Lerchen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The James for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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