7-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Essen, Dortmund, and Hanover and surrounding area

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Essen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Nordkirchen. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Schloss Nordkirchen, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,745 reviews.

Feldhausen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Nordkirchen behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Feldhausen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Movie Park is a great place to start. This amusement park is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 visitors.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern, and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gentlem is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen, and Bochum. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dortmund, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,211 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Essen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bochum may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Bochum, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 9,697 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Bochum Park. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,787 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dortmund, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Stage offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern, and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Grammons Restaurant, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing contemporary, and classic french cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Vater&sohn, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Central Bar & More Dortmund. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, Holzhausen-Externsteine, and Porta Westfalica, 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 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dortmund Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 15,732 visitors.

Westfalenpark is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Holzhausen-Externsteine. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Holzhausen-Externsteine, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Externsteine. This much-appreciated geotope is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,023 reviews.

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 Hanover. Hanover 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 Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Handwerk delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Jante, acclaimed for its delectable creative, and modern specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Votum, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Seña, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sternwarte is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Hanover for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hanover, and Laatzen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landesmuseum Hannover. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,106 reviews.

Continue your journey at Masch Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,391 travelers from near and far.

Hanover is also the home of Hanover Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hanover and set your GPS to Laatzen. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Laatzen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hanover Fairground. This performing arts center is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,951 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hanover and your accommodation.

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dublin Inn, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.

Say good night to Hanover and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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 Hanover. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Markthalle Hannover. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

Next up is Eilenriede. This urban forest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,359 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Sea Life Hannover. This aquarium has been rated 4 out of 5 stars in 8,630 reviews.

Berggarten is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,252 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Muenster, 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 Muenster, 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 Muenster by securing a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Coeur D'Artichaut, 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 Spitzner, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french cuisine in Muenster. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Eulen & Lerchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. The James is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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