7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover and Hamburg

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Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Hanover, Hamburg, and Nordkirchen.

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 Hanover, and 3 nights 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Heide Park, learn more about the unique Hagenbeck Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Elbe Tunnel.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Hanover, Hamburg, and Nordkirchen, 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
Westfalenpark
German Football MuseumDASA Working World ExhibitionDortmund ZooCasino Hohensyburg
MarkthalleHerrenhäuser Gärten
ElbphilharmonieMiniatur WunderlandHamburg DungeonSt Michael's ChurchLoki Schmidt Garden Botanical of University Hamburg
St. Pauli PiersElbe TunnelPlanten un BlomenTierpark HagenbeckStadtpark
ChilehausCHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs SchokoladenmuseumInternational Maritime Museum HamburgSchloss Nordkirchen
Rombergpark Botanical Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Welcome to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 taking a stroll in the city center. 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.

Savor the flavors at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Alten Markt beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ringhotel Drees. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 17 min

  • German Football Museum
  • DASA Working World Exhibition
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • Casino Hohensyburg
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dortmund. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dortmund today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is German Football Museum. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dasa Working World Exhibition and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Dortmund Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to Casino Hohensyburg. This locally appreciated casino is a highlight in Dortmund.

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 Hanover. Hanover 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 explore more of Hanover, 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 Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Jante, 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 Votum, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hanover. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hanover. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Markthalle Hannover is the perfect place to start. This food market is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Hanover. Next, head to Herrenhausen Gardens, a captivating botanical garden, known for its masterful features.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Hamburg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 26 km, 1 hour 23 min

  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • St Michael's Church
  • Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical of University Hamburg
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a concert hall, a museum, a haunted house, a church, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This famous concert hall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Miniatur Wunderland located in Hamburg for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Hamburg Dungeon. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the haunted house, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St. Michael's Church. This church has a historic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical Of University Hamburg. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in Hamburg, this botanical garden is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Miller, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Copa Cabana Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fontenay Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 28 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • Stadtpark
  • More

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

Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a pier, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular St. Pauli Piers. Just a short distance away is Elbe Tunnel, a culturally significant historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Planten Un Blomen, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Hagenbeck Zoo. Last up on today’s itinerary is a park. Make your way to Stadtpark for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Hamburg.

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 Hamburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Edelcurry, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Deichgraf Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tower Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Hamburg
  • Nordkirchen
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 334 km, 4 hours 25 min

  • Chilehaus
  • CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum
  • International Maritime Museum Hamburg
  • Schloss Nordkirchen
  • More

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 Hamburg and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Chilehaus, an increasingly popular historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at International Maritime Museum Hamburg. This maritime museum is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your journey at Schloss Nordkirchen and explore the visually striking features.

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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Dortmund, Grammons Restaurant shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

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.

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

Start your day with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This underrated botanical garden is a must-visit in the city.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

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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