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

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 1 vibrant destinations - Dortmund. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of a romantic, a scenic, a stunning, a visually striking, a masterful, and a standout. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This beloved botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Westfalenpark, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Dortmund U-tower, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Dortmund. This art installation is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, German Football Museum. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this museum offers.

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 Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its inviting atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Hamburg covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a concert hall, a monument, a botanical garden, a park, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Elbe Tunnel. This well-known historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a must-see concert hall 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 St. Nikolai Memorial. This up-and-coming monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Planten Un Blomen, where you can take in its mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Stadtpark. This instagrammable park offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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 Hamburg and Bad Fallingbostel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bad Fallingbostel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of french and seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ox & Klee, renowned for its delicious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cologne today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Cologne Zoological Garden. This stunning zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral and learn what makes this UNESCO world heritage-listed church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Old Market. After exploring the public square, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is a highlight in Cologne.

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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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