7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling east to Hanover, Berlin, and Hamburg

On day 2 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 Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the widely recognized church, Cologne Cathedral. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. This well-known zoo is an essential stop that should not be missed.

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

Savor the flavors at Meteora, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar Añejo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Quarks Bar Hannover. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Seña, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sternwarte is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Potsdam. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Berlin, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Hanover is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Herrenhausen Gardens, a locally renowned botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hanover Zoo, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal.

Set your GPS to Potsdam and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Potsdam beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Sanssouci, a popular palace that everyone visiting Potsdam should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Sanssouci Park. This romantic park is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

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 Berlin. Berlin 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 Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a memorable dining experience in Berlin by booking a table at Rutz, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Berlin, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-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, FACIL is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Monkey Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Saint Jean is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Green Door Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Berlin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Berlin Wall Memorial. This culturally significant war memorial is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Berlin Cathedral, another grand attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Alexanderplatz, one of the city’s most iconic attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of East Side Gallery. This standout street art is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Berlin's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berlin TV Tower, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Sharlie Cheen Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Berlin Icebar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Curtain Club. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin, 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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the well-known Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, a photogenic monument in Berlin. Next, go to Potsdamer Platz.

After visiting Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe and Potsdamer Platz, take time to explore Berlin's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Brandenburg Gate. This breathtaking monument offers a unique experience. Großer Tiergarten is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Berlin Zoological Garden, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Berlin.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Hamburg by securing a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and international menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Haerlin, famous for its scrumptious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Hamburg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hamburg and Gelsenkirchen. 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.

Immerse yourself in Hamburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hamburg Townhall. This instagrammable city hall is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Miniatur Wunderland, a must-visit museum 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a widely recognized concert hall.

When you’ve had your share of Hamburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gelsenkirchen. Your travel time is around 3 hours 43 min.

Make your way to Nordstern Park, a curiosity-inducing park that draws attention for its symbolic features.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cologne's best restaurants.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.