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

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Dortmund city centre aerial panoramic view
Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 7-day road trip in Germany! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dortmund, Hanover, Wolterdingen, Hamburg, Bremen, Duisburg, and Essen.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, and 1 night in Bremen. 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 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Hanover, Wolterdingen, Hamburg, Bremen, Duisburg, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Say hello to Dortmund! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • Hanover
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • German Football Museum
  • LWL Industrial Museum Zollern
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • Casino Hohensyburg
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Dortmund. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy all that German Football Museum has to offer. This is an underrated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern, an intriguing museum in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dortmund Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Casino Hohensyburg, another of the city’s often recommended attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Votum, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover 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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Day3

Day 3

  • Hanover
  • Wolterdingen
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
  • More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Hanover and Wolterdingen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Markthalle Hannover leaves a lasting impression. This food market is one of the most curiosity-inducing places to visit in Hanover. Next, head to Herrenhausen Gardens, a notable botanical garden, known for its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wolterdingen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Heide Park, an astonishing amusement park in Wolterdingen. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french and classic cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Planten un Blomen
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • Stadtpark
  • Mönckebergstraße
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Mönckebergstraße is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Hamburg, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Elbe Philharmonic Hall makes a great addition to your morning plans. This impressive concert hall is an awe-inspiring place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Planten Un Blomen, a peaceful botanical garden with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hagenbeck Zoo. This notable zoo offers a gorgeous encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Stadtpark 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 Hamburg.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • Bremen
  • More

Drive 127 km, 2 hours 24 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • St Michael's Church
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Hamburg. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bremen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Hamburg Dungeon is an essential stop in Hamburg. This well-known haunted house provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Miniatur Wunderland, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St. Michael's Church, a captivating church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Elbe Tunnel. Round off your day at St. Pauli Piers, another gem in Hamburg with romantic features to discover.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bremen. Bremen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bremen is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bremen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a highly-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rosso Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Red Rock is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Bremen
  • Duisburg
  • Essen
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 339 km, 4 hours 33 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • More

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 places, which are Duisburg and Essen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund, where will spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Duisburg. This car ride takes around 2 hours 59 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park in Duisburg. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Duisburg Zoo. This interesting zoo is a top recommendation in the area.

Essen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Duisburg behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Essen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, a curiosity-inducing laser tag arena that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

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!

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Day7

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a serene botanical garden before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Dortmund’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Dine in style at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, ALEX Dortmund boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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