5-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling south to Düsseldorf and Kassel

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Description

Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hanover, Laatzen, Düsseldorf, Brühl, Höningen, Cologne, Kassel, and Porta Westfalica. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Hanover, 1 night in Düsseldorf, and 1 night in Kassel. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Hanover, 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. Phantasialand and Cologne Cathedral are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Laatzen, Düsseldorf, Brühl, Höningen, Cologne, Kassel, and Porta Westfalica, 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, accommodation, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Eilenriede City Forest
MarkthalleHanover FairgroundHanover ZooHerrenhäuser GärtenEilenriede City Forest
PhantasialandCologne CathedralCologne Zoological Garden
LöwenburgBergpark WilhelmshöheHercules monumentEmperor William Monument
MaschparkEilenriede City Forest

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Day 1

Day 1 – Hanover - arrival day

  • Hanover - Arrival day
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  • Eilenriede City Forest
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Say hello to Hanover! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Hanover for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Hanover 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 Eilenriede or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Hanover. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Meteora, a popular restaurant in Hanover. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hanover at Bar Añejo, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Quarks Bar Hannover. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hanover tonight.

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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Hanover, Laatzen, and Düsseldorf

  • Hanover
  • Laatzen
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Markthalle
  • Hanover Fairground
  • Hanover Zoo
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Eilenriede City Forest
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover and Laatzen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Hanover includes a food market, a zoo, and a botanical garden. Markthalle Hannover is must-visit food market and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Hanover Zoo, a popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Herrenhausen Gardens, a picture-perfect botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. This 1-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, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Düsseldorf, Brühl, Höningen, Cologne, and Kassel

  • Dusseldorf
  • Eckdorf
  • Höningen
  • Cologne
  • Kassel
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Drive 337 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Phantasialand
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Brühl, Höningen, and Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kassel, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Phantasialand, a widely recognized amusement park known for its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Brühl’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Höningen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Höningen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Äußerer Grüngürtel, a worthwhile park that everyone visiting Höningen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Cologne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Höningen behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Cologne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Cologne Cathedral and explore the UNESCO world heritage-designated features. Next, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden, another highlight in the village.

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 Kassel. Kassel 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.

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

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

Keep the evening going at Stadt Stockholm Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe Bohemia Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Seibert, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Kassel, Porta Westfalica, and Hanover

  • Kassel
  • Porta Westfalica
  • Hanover
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Drive 253 km, 4 hours 41 min

  • Löwenburg
  • Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe
  • Hercules monument
  • Emperor William Monument
  • More

On day 4 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 Kassel and Porta Westfalica. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a gorgeous, a visually striking, a history-steeped, an idyllic, a culturally significant, a noteworthy, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Löwenburg. This frequently visited castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Hercules Monument, Kassel, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Kassel. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

After soaking in Detmold’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Porta Westfalica. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Porta Westfalica, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Emperor William Monument, an often recommended monument in Porta Westfalica. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Votum, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Altstadt-treff, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out My Way Cocktailbar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Hanover - departure day

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

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Hanover’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

Hanover is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a majestic, an awe-inspiring, and an instagrammable! Start at Masch Park, an often recommended park that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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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