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

1 / 76
Photo of Hanover, Germany. Building of New Town Hall reflecting in water on sunset.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Hanover, 1 night in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Frankfurt, 1 night in Essen, and 1 night 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 Hanover, 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 Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Elbe Tunnel.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Düsseldorf, Brühl, Königswinter, Koblenz, Frankfurt, Cologne, Essen, Gelsenkirchen, Muenster, and Hamburg, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Hanover

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Maschpark
MarkthalleHanover ZooHerrenhäuser Gärten
PhantasialandSchloss DrachenburgEmperor William Memorial at Deutsches EckEhrenbreitstein Fortress
RömerbergIron FootbridgePalmengarten FrankfurtCologne Cathedral
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinRed Dot Design MuseumNordstern ParkSchlossplatz
Miniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonieElbe TunnelPlanten un Blomen
Eilenriede City Forest

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Hanover - Arrival day
  • More
  • Maschpark
  • More

Welcome to Hanover, 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 Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hanover 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 Masch Park, or just 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 Hanover. 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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Meteora, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Añejo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Quarks Bar Hannover. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Hanover
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 286 km, 3 hours 39 min

  • Markthalle
  • Hanover Zoo
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start by visiting Markthalle Hannover, a prime spot to begin your journey. This instagrammable food market is sure to impress. Next on your list is Hanover Zoo, another must-visit landmark and popular zoo renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Hanover by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Herrenhausen Gardens. This visually striking botanical garden is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Hanover experience.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Engelchen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Cherie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Dusseldorf
  • Frankfurt
  • More

Drive 310 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • Phantasialand
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
  • Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • More

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

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the widely recognized Phantasialand, a picture-perfect amusement park in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Schloss Drachenburg.

After visiting Phantasialand and Schloss Drachenburg, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Deutsches Eck. This picture-perfect monument offers a unique experience. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gute Stute, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Gleis 25 provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Frankfurt
  • Essen
  • More

Drive 265 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

On day 4 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 Frankfurt and Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Frankfurt’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Römerberg. This enchanting public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the symbolic features of Iron Footbridge, a must-visit monument in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Palmengarten, a notable botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Cologne Cathedral, known for its historic features.

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

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kettner's Kamota, a local favorite known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning austrian and french contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Essen
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 371 km, 4 hours 31 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Red Dot Design Museum
  • Nordstern Park
  • Schlossplatz
  • More

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

Today's adventure in Essen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This breathtaking museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Red Dot Design Museum, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Nordstern Park, one of the city’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Schlossplatz. This historic public square is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Hamburg
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 161 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
  • 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 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.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences in the charming city of Hamburg. Your adventure starts at Miniatur Wunderland, a top-rated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This spectacular concert hall is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Elbe Tunnel. This culturally significant historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Planten Un Blomen is also worth visiting.

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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Altstadt-treff offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, My Way Cocktailbar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

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

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Hanover - Departure day
  • More
  • Eilenriede City Forest
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover 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, begin at Eilenriede. This often recommended park is a popular place to see in the city.

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 Hanover.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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!

Read more

We guarantee

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

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Germany

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.