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

On day 3 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 Brühl, Königswinter, and Koblenz. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Phantasialand, an impressive amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Brühl’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Königswinter. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Königswinter, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Königswinter and set your GPS to Koblenz. 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 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Koblenz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Deutsches Eck and explore the breathtaking features. Next, make your way to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, another highlight in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Frankfurt. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Frankfurt. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Gute Stute, known for its lively atmosphere. Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Gleis 25 offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Frankfurt and Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Römerberg. This history-steeped public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Iron Footbridge, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Palmengarten, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its romantic features.

Essen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Essen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Cologne Cathedral and explore the historic features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Südrock Rock Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gentlem offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Diamond Cocktail Lounge is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Muenster. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your day at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is a well-known place to see in Essen. Then, wander over to Red Dot Design Museum. If visually striking sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Essen and set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen. 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 9 min. Upon reaching Gelsenkirchen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Nordstern Park, a locally appreciated park in Gelsenkirchen. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Gelsenkirchen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Muenster may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Muenster, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make your way to Schlossplatz, an increasingly popular public square that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

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 Hamburg. Hamburg 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Hamburg by securing a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative and international menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Haerlin, famous for its scrumptious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes a museum, a concert hall, a historical landmark, a botanical garden and much more! Miniatur Wunderland is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an astonishing concert hall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, an eye-catching historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Hamburg. If you’re looking for more, Planten Un Blomen is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. 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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Jante is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Votum. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Altstadt-treff, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, My Way Cocktailbar is another popular option for a drink or two.

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