6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Bielefeld, Hamburg, and Bremen
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Cologne, 1 night in Bielefeld, 1 night in Hamburg, and 1 night in Bremen. 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 Cologne, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Cologne Cathedral, learn more about the unique Elbe Tunnel, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Lindt Chocolate Museum.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Bielefeld, Hanover, Munster, Hamburg, Bremen, Essen, and Duisburg, 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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Day 1
- Cologne - Arrival day
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- Schildergasse
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Cologne 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 Schildergasse, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Cologne
- Bielefeld
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Drive 200 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bielefeld, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a museum, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the top-rated Cologne Cathedral and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lindt Chocolate Museum, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the city’s most interesting spots that you shouldn’t miss.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bielefeld, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bielefeld's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at GlückundSeligkeit, a top-rated dining destination in Bielefeld. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider New Orleans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Knigge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bielefeld this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Die Villa, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Three Sixty Bielefeld, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cutie provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Bielefeld
- Hamburg
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Drive 294 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
- Markthalle
- Hanover Zoo
- German Panzer Museum Munster
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover and Munster. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Bielefeld on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Herrenhausen Gardens is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this remarkable botanical garden before continuing your journey. Markthalle Hannover is your next stop. This intriguing food market is one of the best-rated sights in Bielefeld.
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 Hanover Zoo. This gorgeous zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit German Tank Museum.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg 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 Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 4
- Hamburg
- Bremen
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Elbphilharmonie
- St. Pauli Piers
- Elbe Tunnel
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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 Bremen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a museum, a concert hall, a pier, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Miniatur Wunderland. This widely recognized museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Elbe Philharmonic Hall located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St. Pauli Piers. Its respected features will captivate you. After the pier, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Elbe Tunnel. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this historical landmark.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bremen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Bremen, 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 Hotel Robben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Rosso Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Red Rock is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Bremen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Bremen
- Cologne
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Drive 354 km, 4 hours 33 min
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bremen. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, and a zoo. Begin your adventure at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This is a popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an interesting park in Bremen.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Duisburg Zoo.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.
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!
Day 6
- Cologne - Departure day
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- Old Market
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Day 6 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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, begin at Old Market. This popular public square is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Cologne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Hohe Straße. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cologne.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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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