7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Cologne and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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 Dortmund, 1 night in Hamburg, 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 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 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, Hamburg, Düsseldorf, Brühl, and Cologne, 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
- Dortmund - Arrival day
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- Westfalenpark
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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 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.
Dortmund 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 Westfalenpark, or just 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 Dortmund. 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. 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 wonderful meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zum Alten Markt, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ringhotel Drees. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Vater&sohn. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Central Bar & More Dortmund, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Dortmund
- Hamburg
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Drive 366 km, 4 hours 22 min
- German Football Museum
- Rombergpark Botanical Garden
- Dortmund Zoo
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dortmund. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dortmund today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is German Football Museum. This heritage-rich museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Rombergpark Botanical Garden and learn what makes this eye-catching botanical garden unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Dortmund Zoo.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 3
- Hamburg
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 412 km, 5 hours 2 min
- Elbe Tunnel
- St. Pauli Piers
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
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Dive into day 3 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a pier, a concert hall, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the well-known Elbe Tunnel and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St. Pauli Piers, a history-steeped pier that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the impressive Miniatur Wunderland.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, recognized for its delicious japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Le Flair, a local favorite known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning french and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Engelchen offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Cherie is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Auberge Rock Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 40 km, 1 hour 17 min
- Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
- Nord Park
- Japanese Garden
- Rheinturm
- Schloss Benrath
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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Düsseldorf has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Düsseldorf by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences await you in Düsseldorf on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating aquarium, Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf. Afterward, continue to Nord Park, a park every traveler should visit.
As you explore Düsseldorf’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Japanese Garden. This worthwhile botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rheinturm, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Schloss Benrath, a locally renowned palace in the city.
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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Coffee Fellows is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Düsseldorf.
Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Head back to your accommodation in Düsseldorf and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Dusseldorf
- Cologne
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Drive 92 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Burgplatz
- Hofgarten
- Phantasialand
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Düsseldorf 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.
Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Burgplatz, a worthwhile public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Hofgarten, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Phantasialand. This amusement park is one of the city’s most extraordinary spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
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.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 6
- Cologne
- Dortmund
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Drive 100 km, 1 hour 53 min
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Old Market
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Zoological Garden
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On day 6 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 Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. The first attraction of today is Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum is a picture-perfect place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Old Market, a visually striking public square with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church offers a stunning encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gaststätte Lütge-eck. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 7
- Dortmund - Departure day
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- Burg Hörde
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Day 7 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Hörde. This increasingly popular castle is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Dortmund's best shopping area, Westenhellweg. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, ALEX Dortmund is another top choice with a popular 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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