Two-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Muenster to Essen, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hanover, and Hamburg and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Muenster. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Muenster on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Schlossplatz is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this respected public square before continuing your journey. Schloss Münster is your next stop. This frequently visited palace is one of the best-rated sights in Muenster.

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 Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This serene botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium and Münster Lock.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Südrock Rock Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gentlem is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Essen. You’ll stay in Essen for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a museum and a park. Start your adventure at Shaft Xii. This worthwhile museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Museum Folkwang. This increasingly popular museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hügel Park, where you can take in eye-catching features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 Essen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Banana Leaf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Artemis. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Essen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Metropol Café-bar Essen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Temple Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zum Pümpchen, 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.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Essen for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Essen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Botanischer Garten Grugapark is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most popular places to visit in Essen. Next, head to Krupp-park, a locally appreciated park, known for its picturesque features.

Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at SAUSALITOS, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant tablo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Rosemarie Garten & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Essen.

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Essen, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Immerse yourself in Essen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at German Mining Museum. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, an often recommended zoo. For a change of scene, check out Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum, known for its romantic features.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, a highly-rated dining destination in Essen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café LIVRES. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Essen this evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a park, a zoo, a marina, an art installation, a lake and much more! Start your adventure at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Duisburg Zoo, a must-see zoo in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Duisburg Inner Harbour. This increasingly popular marina offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Tiger & Turtle, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Sechs-seen-platte. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 explore more of Cologne, 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.

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 The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the locally renowned Cologne Zoological Garden, a visually striking zoo in Cologne. Next, go to Cologne Cathedral.

After visiting Cologne Zoological Garden and Cologne Cathedral, have a stroll along Cologne's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Old Market. This visually striking public square offers a unique experience. Lindt Chocolate Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 explore more of Cologne, 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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aachen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots. Start at Carolus Thermen, a worthwhile spa in the city. Then, head to Marktplatz Am Rathaus and soak in the ambiance of this romantic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Katschhof. This is one of the city’s most worthwhile standout spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the interesting Aachen Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Elisenbrunnen. This monument is an eye-catching highlight in Cologne.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Discover the culinary delights of Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Le Flair, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering french and contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Engelchen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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

Today’s agenda in Düsseldorf includes a park, a public square, a boardwalk, an observation deck, a palace and much more! Hofgarten is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Burgplatz, an increasingly popular public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rheinpromenade, a visually striking boardwalk, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Düsseldorf. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known Rheinturm. If you’re looking for more, Schloss Benrath is also a popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Coffee Fellows as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Studio 1 after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sakura Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Engel Rockbar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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

A blend of family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended wildlife reserve, Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. Afterward, continue to Japanese Garden, a botanical garden every traveler should visit.

As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Nord Park. This intriguing park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, 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 Konditorei Heinemann. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dortmund and Hamm. 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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a park, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Westfalenpark. This notable park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, which may be one of the most peaceful places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf 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 Dortmund Zoo, a locally renowned zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Maximilianpark Hamm.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining spot in Hanover. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar Añejo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Quarks Bar Hannover. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hanover.

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 your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bremen. 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the intriguing Rhododendron-park Bremen, a mesmerizing botanical garden in Hanover. Next, go to Schnoor.

After visiting Rhododendron-park Bremen and Schnoor, have a stroll along Hanover's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bremen Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a unique experience. Bremen Roland is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, 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 Hamburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 13 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This top-rated concert hall is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Miniatur Wunderland, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Hamburg Dungeon. This well-known haunted house is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Planten Un Blomen, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Stadtpark is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Miller, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Copa Cabana Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Fontenay Bar 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!

On day 14 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 Hamburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Hamburg. Your adventure starts at St. Michael's Church, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Elbe Tunnel. This notable historical landmark is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St. Pauli Piers. This enchanting pier offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Hagenbeck Zoo is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Muenster. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative 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 Spitzner, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Eulen & Lerchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The James provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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