6-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Hamburg, Muenster, and Cologne

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Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hanover, Laatzen, Hamburg, Muenster, Duisburg, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, and Essen. 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 Hamburg, 1 night in Muenster, and 1 night in Cologne. 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. Miniatur Wunderland and Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Laatzen, Hamburg, Muenster, Duisburg, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, and Essen, 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

Day 1 – Hanover - arrival day

  • Hanover - Arrival day
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  • Schillerdenkmal
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Welcome to Hanover, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Friedrich Schiller 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Quarks Bar Hannover, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Guru. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Seña, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sternwarte, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Hanover, Laatzen, and Hamburg

  • Hamburg
  • Hanover
  • Laatzen
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Drive 182 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Markthalle
  • Maschpark
  • Hanover Fairground
  • Hanover Zoo
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hanover, and Laatzen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,074 visitors.

Masch Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,391 visitors.

Hanover Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

Herrenhausen Gardens is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laatzen.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Hanover Fairground, a remarkable performing arts center where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,951 reviews.

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.

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative, and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to 100/200 Kitchen, renowned for its delectable creative, and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Haerlin, a local gem known for its delightful creative french, and classic cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Hamburg, and Muenster

  • Münster
  • Hamburg
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hamburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Next up is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is St. Pauli Piers. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Elbe Tunnel is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Muenster, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delicious modern french, and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Spitzner, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Atelier provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Spooky's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Muenster, Duisburg, Königswinter, Brühl, and Cologne

  • Cologne
  • Duisburg
  • Königswinter
  • Brühl
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Phantasialand
  • 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 Duisburg, Königswinter, and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Duisburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 visitors.

Duisburg Zoo is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Duisburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Schloss Drachenburg. This popular château has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french, and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern, and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Zur Tant, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for classic cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day 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 5

Day 5 – Cologne, Essen, and Hanover

  • Hanover
  • Cologne
  • Essen
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Drive 323 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, and Essen, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral gets 5,000,000 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Essen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 1 min.

Take the opportunity to see Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,243 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern, and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Votum is one of the best restaurants for creative, and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Jante. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Hanover - departure day

  • Hanover - Departure day
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  • Eilenriede City Forest
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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 Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hanover’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eilenriede, a remarkable urban forest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,359 reviews.

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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