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

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

Start your day at Markthalle Hannover. This instagrammable food market is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Hanover. Then, wander over to Berggarten. If romantic sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Herrenhausen Gardens. This masterful botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Hanover offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Hanover Zoo is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Laatzen. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hanover Fairground, a beloved exposition center in Laatzen.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kassel, 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 Kassel's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ginko - das glutenfreie Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Gusto Tavola Calda. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kassel tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Kassel, Oberhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Essen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Catch Löwenburg before the crowds roll in. This romantic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the symbolic features of Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Hercules Monument, Kassel, a popular monument.

Set your GPS to Oberhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oberhausen beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Gasometer Oberhausen, a popular museum known for its picture-perfect features.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Nordstern Park, a beloved park that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

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

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. We also recommend checking out the menu at Kettner's Kamota. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Cologne. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover, where will spend 1 night.

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 Cologne. Your travel time is around 1 hour 1 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cologne is Old Market, a notable public square that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cologne Cathedral, a historic church that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Cologne Zoological Garden, a captivating zoo that offers a unique experience.

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

Dine in style at Guru, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dublin Inn boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Altstadt-treff, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of My Way Cocktailbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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