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

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Description

Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Gelsenkirchen, Bonn, Brühl, Cologne, Duisburg, and Hamburg. 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 3 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Hamburg. 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 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 Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Elbe Tunnel.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Gelsenkirchen, Bonn, Brühl, Cologne, Duisburg, and Hamburg, 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
WestfalenparkRombergpark Botanical GardenPhoenix-SeeGerman Football MuseumLWL Industrial Museum Zollern
Nordstern ParkRheinauePhantasialand
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumLandschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
Planten un BlomenElbe TunnelElbphilharmonieMiniatur Wunderland

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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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 in Dortmund for 2 nights 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.

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vater&sohn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 39 km, 1 hour 23 min

  • Westfalenpark
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • Phoenix-See
  • German Football Museum
  • LWL Industrial Museum Zollern
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your adventure at Westfalenpark. This interesting park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a must-see botanical garden in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Phoenix-see. This intriguing lake offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to German Football Museum, where you can take in its photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern.

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 Dortmund, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dortmund
  • Gelsenkirchen
  • Bonn
  • Eckdorf
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 219 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Nordstern Park
  • Rheinaue
  • Phantasialand
  • 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 Gelsenkirchen, Bonn, and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Gelsenkirchen today.

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gelsenkirchen. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Nordstern Park, an underrated park in Gelsenkirchen. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Gelsenkirchen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bonn. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rheinaue, a locally renowned park known for its mesmerizing features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bonn and set your GPS to Brühl. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 28 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the photogenic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Duisburg
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 453 km, 5 hours 26 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Duisburg, 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 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church and a museum. Begin your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This is a top-rated church you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, a well-known museum in Cologne.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is a locally renowned park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative and international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Haerlin is one of the best restaurants for creative french and classic cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at 100/200 Kitchen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 361 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Planten un Blomen
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • More

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 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Planten Un Blomen is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene botanical garden before continuing your journey. Elbe Tunnel is your next stop. This well-known historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.

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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This instagrammable concert hall is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Miniatur Wunderland.

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 Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ALEX Dortmund beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dortmund - Departure day
  • More

Day 6 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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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 KLUBHAUS1249, 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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