5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area

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Dortmund city centre aerial panoramic view
Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area
5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area
5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area
5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area
5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Düsseldorf and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Germany! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Hamburg, Duisburg, Düsseldorf, and Cologne.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Hamburg, and 1 night in Düsseldorf. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Miniatur Wunderland and Elbe Philharmonic Hall are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Hamburg, Duisburg, Düsseldorf, and Cologne, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Dortmund, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Westfalenpark. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Meeting, die Café-Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zum Alten Markt? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ringhotel Drees as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dortmund.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Loka Lounge Dortmund for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Central Bar & More Dortmund is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Hamburg
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Drive 366 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • German Football Museum
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Dortmund. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Hamburg, where you'll spend 1 night.

German Football Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden, an increasingly popular botanical garden, known for its eye-catching 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 Dortmund Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo is a highly recommended 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.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Hamburg
  • Duisburg
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 411 km, 5 hours 2 min

  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Hamburg and Duisburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally renowned Elbe Tunnel, a historic historical landmark in Hamburg. Next, go to Miniatur Wunderland.

After visiting Elbe Tunnel and Miniatur Wunderland, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This enchanting concert hall offers a unique experience.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 59 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and explore the picture-perfect features.

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.

Düsseldorf 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 Düsseldorf.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Dusseldorf
  • Cologne
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 141 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cologne. This car ride takes around 39 min.

Savor the day by heading to Cologne Cathedral, an extraordinary church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Old Market, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Lindt Chocolate Museum, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Cologne Zoological Garden. This instagrammable zoo is well worth the visit.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

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

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Burg Hörde
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Hörde, a picture-perfect castle before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Dortmund, Dortmund Indoor Market Hall is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

If you're eager to try something different, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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