14-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Cologne, Heidelberg, Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, and Hamburg and surrounding area

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

Start by visiting Wakitu Playground, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Hanover Zoo, another must-visit landmark and captivating zoo renowned for its stunning features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Hanover by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Markthalle Hannover. This picture-perfect food market is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Berggarten also adds charm to your journey, and Herrenhausen Gardens wraps up your day with its romantic appeal.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Altstadt-treff stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, My Way Cocktailbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

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

On day 3 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 Gelsenkirchen and Oberhausen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hanover, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gelsenkirchen may take around 2 hours 34 min. Upon your arrival in Gelsenkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Nordstern Park, an underrated park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gelsenkirchen, 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 13 min. Upon your arrival in Oberhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Sea Life Oberhausen and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Gasometer Oberhausen, another highlight in the city.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight'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.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. 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 1 night.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a museum, a public square, a church, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Lindt Chocolate Museum. Just a short distance away is Old Market, a romantic public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s most astonishing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Cologne Zoological Garden.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining spot in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Heidelberg.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Café Bar Goodfellas, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Nuremberg and Chemnitz, 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 Dresden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Nuremberg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Schöner Brunnen. This detailed monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Nuremberg Castle, another awe-inspiring attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nuremberg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Chemnitz. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Chemnitz Botanical Garden, a frequently visited botanical garden in Chemnitz. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Dresden. Dresden 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 you explore more of Dresden, 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 Dresden by reserving a table at ElbUferei. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional mediterranean and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Genuss-Atelier, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Elements, a local favorite known for its delightful modern and international cuisine in Dresden. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern and international foodies seeking culinary excellence.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hebeda's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Blondes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Dresden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Berlin. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, an awe-inspiring, a photogenic, a historic, a monumental, a culturally significant, and a detailed in the charming city of Dresden. Your adventure starts at Church Of Our Lady, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Brühl's Terrace. This notable public square is known for its majestic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dresden's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Zwinger. This visually striking palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Semperoper is also worth visiting, along with Golden Rider. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Berlin by booking a table at Rutz. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover FACIL, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Monkey Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Saint Jean is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Green Door Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Berlin, featuring an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a standout, a culturally significant, a masterful, a charming, and a majestic. Start at Berlin Zoological Garden, a top-rated zoo in the city. Then, head to Siegessäule and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Berlin and when you are ready for more, go to Großer Tiergarten. This is one of the city’s most captivating spots. After exploring the park, visit the globally renowned Brandenburg Gate. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, a captivating monument in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Berlin TV Tower as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Berlin.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Sharlie Cheen Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Berlin Icebar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Curtain Club. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Berlin, including a park, a war memorial, a public square, a street art and much more! Start your adventure at Mauerpark. This captivating park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Berlin Wall Memorial located in Berlin for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Alexanderplatz. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to East Side Gallery. This street art has a historic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Volkspark Friedrichshain. As one of the most well-known attractions in Berlin, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Marjellchen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Berlin.

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, a serene, a breathtaking, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a majestic, and a masterful. Whether you decide to explore Berlin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Treptower Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Checkpoint Charlie is your next stop. This spectacular historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Berlin.

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 Topography Of Terror. This photogenic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Potsdamer Platz and German Museum Of Technology.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Curry 61, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gasthaus Krombach, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SOY. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Franken Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Mikkeller Berlin offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. Limonadier Cocktailbar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 11 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 Berlin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Berlin. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Pergamon Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Berlin. Next, head to Berlin Cathedral, a well-known church, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche. This photogenic church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Charlottenburg Palace adds its own distinct charm to your journey.

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

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

Begin 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 12 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. St. Pauli Piers is the perfect place to start. This pier is one of the most notable places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, an interesting historical landmark, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Planten Un Blomen. This romantic botanical garden offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Hagenbeck Zoo adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Stadtpark, a serene park in Hamburg.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 13 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg and Bad Fallingbostel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a standout, an inviting, a grand, and a charming. Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. St. Michael's Church is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this grand church before continuing your journey. Hamburg Dungeon is your next stop. This captivating haunted house 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This romantic concert hall is a sight to behold.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bad Fallingbostel. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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 Masa Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

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