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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a romantic, and an idyllic. Start at the intriguing Schlossplatz, a stunning public square in Muenster. Next, go to Schloss Münster.

After visiting Schlossplatz and Schloss Münster, take time to explore Muenster's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This romantic botanical garden offers a unique experience. Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Münster Lock, one of the most standout places to visit in Muenster.

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

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Schote is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Essen. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Essen, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bochum. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering German Mining Museum, an increasingly popular museum known for its history-steeped features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Bochum Park, an increasingly popular park that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by + Fossilium Bochum Zoo and uncover the details of this visually striking zoo. Make sure to also explore Botanischer Garten Der Ruhr-universität Bochum, an increasingly popular botanical garden that offers a unique experience.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at CoCoLÁ - Vietnamesisches Restaurant & Café, an iconic dining spot in Essen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Extrablatt Essen a der Lichtburg, a popular restaurant in Essen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café LIVRES, a hidden gem nestled in Essen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Duisburg Zoo. This popular zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Duisburg Inner Harbour. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the marina. Next, continue your journey to Tiger & Turtle, a curiosity-inducing art installation. End your day at Sechs-seen-platte, known for its instagrammable features.

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

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a standout, a profound, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, and a charming. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cologne Zoological Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking zoo before continuing your journey. Cologne Cathedral is your next stop. This impressive church is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Old Market. This history-steeped public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Lindt Chocolate Museum.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Aachen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

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

Begin your journey at Carolus Thermen and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Marktplatz Am Rathaus, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the public square, continue to Katschhof, a picture-perfect public square. Nearby, you will also find Aachen Cathedral. This notable church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Elisenbrunnen, a heritage-rich monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Engelchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Cherie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Düsseldorf. You have 1 night left in Düsseldorf. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a wildlife reserve, a botanical garden, a park, an aquarium and much more! Start your day with a visit to Wildpark Im Grafenberger Wald. This intriguing wildlife reserve is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Japanese Garden, which may be one of the most mesmerizing 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 Nord Park, one of the city’s most increasingly popular park. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf.

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 Düsseldorf. 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 Im Goldenen Kessel, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Konditorei Heinemann. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 Dortmund and Hamm. 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. Dortmund, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from 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.

Head to Westfalenpark, a popular park in Dortmund. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This often recommended botanical garden is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Dortmund Zoo is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most stunning zoo in the region.

Hamm’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dortmund behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. Hamm welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Maximilianpark Hamm, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bremen, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Bremen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bremen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rhododendron-park Bremen, a beloved botanical garden known for its mesmerizing features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Schnoor, an interesting street that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Bremen Cathedral and uncover the details of this symbolic church. Make sure to also explore Bremen Roland, an increasingly popular monument that offers a unique experience.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and international menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Haerlin, known for its delicious creative french and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Hamburg is 100/200 Kitchen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative and modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 13 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a concert hall, a museum, a haunted house, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Just a short distance away is Miniatur Wunderland, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Hamburg Dungeon, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Planten Un Blomen. Last up on today’s itinerary is a park. Make your way to Stadtpark for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cafe Miller, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 14 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting St. Michael's Church, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Elbe Tunnel, another must-visit landmark and notable historical landmark renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Hamburg by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St. Pauli Piers. This respected pier is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Hagenbeck Zoo also adds charm to your journey.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule in Muenster by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Coeur D'Artichaut, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Spitzner, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Eulen & Lerchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The James, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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.