7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Düsseldorf, Hanover, Hamburg, Bremen, Essen, and Duisburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Düsseldorf, 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf, Hanover, Hamburg, Bremen, Essen, and Duisburg, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Düsseldorf - arrival day
- Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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- Burgplatz
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Welcome to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Düsseldorf 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 Burgplatz 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 Düsseldorf. 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 in Düsseldorf. 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brewery Schumacher, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Brewery im Füchschen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The ASH Düsseldorf as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.
Continue your lively evening at Engelchen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Cherie is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Auberge Rock Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Düsseldorf and Hanover
- Dusseldorf
- Hanover
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Drive 297 km, 3 hours 48 min
- Nord Park
- Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf
- Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf
- Schloss Benrath
- Hofgarten
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with a charming, a picturesque, a gorgeous, a picture-perfect, a detailed, and a history-steeped in Düsseldorf. Begin your sightseeing with Nord Park. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Düsseldorf, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This intriguing boardwalk is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Schloss Benrath, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Hofgarten and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most locally appreciated attractions.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hanover. 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Votum, renowned for its delectable creative and modern 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 Jante, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-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 Hanover.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sternwarte for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Dormero Hotel Hannover is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3 – Hanover and Hamburg
- Hanover
- Hamburg
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min
- Markthalle
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hanover. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hanover, including a food market and a botanical garden. Start your adventure at Markthalle Hannover. This curiosity-inducing food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Herrenhausen Gardens located in Hanover for an enchanting atmosphere.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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 100/200 Kitchen, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Haerlin, a local favorite known for its delightful creative french and classic cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative french and classic foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 4 – Hamburg
- Hamburg
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Hamburg Dungeon
- St Michael's Church
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
A blend of a romantic, a serene, a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a historically significant, a culturally significant, and a grand await you in Hamburg on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known park, Stadtpark. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. A visit to this concert hall is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Hamburg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland. This impressive museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Hamburg Dungeon, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit St. Michael's Church and learn why this church is renowned as one of the city's most well-known attractions.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, 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 Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Miller is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Copa Cabana Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fontenay Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Head back to your accommodation in Hamburg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5 – Hamburg and Bremen
- Hamburg
- Bremen
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Drive 133 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Townhall
- Elbe Tunnel
- Planten un Blomen
- Tierpark Hagenbeck
- Miniatur Wunderland
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bremen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Hamburg Townhall. This awe-inspiring city hall is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy St. Pauli Piers, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Elbe Tunnel, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Planten Un Blomen. This serene botanical garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Hagenbeck Zoo, a notable zoo, and take a stroll around the area.
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 Bremen. Bremen 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 Bremen, 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.
Make sure to book a table at Hotel Robben, a popular restaurant in Bremen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bremen at Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Market Hall Eight Bremen. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bremen tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Rosso Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Red Rock, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Sammy`s Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 6 – Bremen, Essen, Duisburg, and Düsseldorf
- Bremen
- Essen
- Duisburg
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 320 km, 4 hours 24 min
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
- Duisburg Zoo
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
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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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bremen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, another highlight in the city.
After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make your way to Duisburg Zoo, an interesting zoo that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a respected park that stands out in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Düsseldorf by securing a table at Pink Pepper. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Nagaya, famous for its scrumptious japanese dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Yoshi by Nagaya, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite japanese and sushi cuisine in Düsseldorf. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for japanese and sushi cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Studio 1. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sakura Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 7 – Düsseldorf - departure day
- Dusseldorf - Departure day
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- Hofgarten
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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 Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Düsseldorf’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf.
Savor the flavors at Im Goldenen Kessel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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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