14-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Kiel, Hamburg, Berlin, Bremen, and Düsseldorf

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Experience Rheinpark, a locally appreciated park in the city. Then, head to Cologne Zoological Garden and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing zoo.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Cologne Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most impressive UNESCO world heritage-listed spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the popular Lindt Chocolate Museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Essen, Oberhausen, and Hamm are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Oberhausen may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Oberhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Oberhausen is Gasometer Oberhausen, an interesting museum that draws attention for its respected features.

After soaking in Oberhausen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hamm. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Hamm, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Maximilianpark Hamm, a locally renowned park known for its detailed features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meteora, a highly-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bar Añejo, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Quarks Bar Hannover. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Seña offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sternwarte is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Dormero Hotel Hannover is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Munster, Bad Fallingbostel, Behringen, and Wilsede. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kiel, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Munster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Munster beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to German Tank Museum, an interesting military museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Bad Fallingbostel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Munster behind. This drive usually takes around 35 min. Bad Fallingbostel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Lüneburg Heath Nature Park, an underrated nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Behringen. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Behringer Heide, an intriguing nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Kiel. Kiel offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fuego del Sur, a popular restaurant in Kiel. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kiel at Sadhu, 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 Manufactur. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Kiel tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Heinrich Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Moralist is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Taktlos - Café & Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Kiel and Kaltenkirchen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, where you'll spend 4 nights.

No visit to Kiel is complete without Schrevenpark. This up-and-coming park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Botanical Garden, another must-visit attraction.

Set your GPS to Kaltenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kaltenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Holstentherme. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the spa before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Bremerhaven.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hamburg and set your GPS to Bremerhaven. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 52 min. Upon reaching Bremerhaven, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering German Emigration Center, an up-and-coming museum known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost, a captivating science center.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Bremerhaven Zoo and uncover the details of this visually striking zoo.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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 consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Berlin, where will spend 1 night.

Let Elbe Tunnel set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking historical landmark before continuing your journey. Elbe Philharmonic Hall is your next stop. This extraordinary concert hall is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.

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 Miniatur Wunderland. This instagrammable museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Planten Un Blomen and Stadtpark.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Rutz, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Berlin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at FACIL. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Monkey Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Saint Jean, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Green Door Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Berlin and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Germany.

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Berlin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

To truly experience Berlin, make sure to drop by Alexanderplatz. This iconic public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Brandenburg Gate, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Potsdamer Platz, one of the most widely recognized places to see in Berlin. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Berlin Zoological Garden. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this zoo offers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bremen. Bremen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bremen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bremen.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Hotel Robben, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Market Hall Eight Bremen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bremen.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rosso Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Red Rock is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bremen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bremen Roland is an ideal stop early in the day. This curiosity-inducing monument is a must-visit in the city.

One of the best things about exploring Bremen 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 Bremen, a curiosity-inducing public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Schnoor and Rhododendron-park Bremen.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Engelchen, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Cherie offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Auberge Rock Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 12 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Düsseldorf, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Düsseldorf, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dortmund and Duisburg to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dortmund, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Düsseldorf to Dortmund may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dortmund, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Westfalenpark and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, another highlight in Dortmund.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 47 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a notable park in Duisburg. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Duisburg Inner Harbour is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic marina in the region.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an iconic dining spot in Düsseldorf. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Coffee Fellows, a hidden gem nestled in Düsseldorf. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Studio 1, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sakura Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Engel Rockbar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 13 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Düsseldorf and Aachen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Burgplatz and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hofgarten, a standout park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Rheinpromenade, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Rheinturm.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Aachen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Upon reaching Aachen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Aachen Cathedral, a notable church in Aachen. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Suderman, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!