7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling west to Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Essen, and Hamburg

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 3 places, which are Brühl, Königswinter, and Koblenz. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Düsseldorf and set your GPS to Brühl. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 49 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Phantasialand, an astonishing amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Brühl, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Königswinter. Your travel time is around 39 min.

Schloss Drachenburg is a captivating castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Koblenz, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Königswinter to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Deutsches Eck and explore the remarkable features. Next, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, another highlight in Koblenz.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Frankfurt, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Frankfurt by securing a table at Gustav. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lafleur, famous for its scrumptious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Erno's Bistro, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for classic french and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gute Stute, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Frankfurt and Cologne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Essen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Römerberg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Iron Footbridge, a romantic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Palmengarten, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 57 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church known for its historic features.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Essen's best restaurants.

Discover the culinary delights of Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and classic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Schote, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Kettner's Kamota, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering austrian and french contemporary menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Südrock Rock Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gentlem offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Essen. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Muenster. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Red Dot Design Museum, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming museum renowned for its visually striking features.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Nordstern Park, an often recommended park that everyone visiting Gelsenkirchen should see.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Muenster. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Schlossplatz is a beloved public square we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

Hamburg 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 Hamburg.

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 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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, where you'll spend 1 night.

Visiting Miniatur Wunderland is always a good idea. This extraordinary museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable 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 Elbe Tunnel. This locally renowned historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Planten Un Blomen, where you can take in eye-catching features.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Handwerk, 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 2-star Michelin-awardee, Jante, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Hanover is Votum, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Altstadt-treff, known for its inviting atmosphere. My Way Cocktailbar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!