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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Muenster, including a castle, an amusement park, and a park. Start your day at Schloss Nordkirchen. This visually striking castle is a beloved place to see in Muenster. Then, wander over to Movie Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this amusement park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Nordstern Park. This stunning park is a favorite among 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Essen. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Essen by securing a reservation at Hannappel. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local spot known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Südrock Rock Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Gentlem offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Diamond Cocktail Lounge. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Say good night to Essen and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Essen. Begin your sightseeing with Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This locally renowned museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Essen, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo. This up-and-coming zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Bochum Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage 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 Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dortmund, Horn, 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.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dortmund, including a zoo, a park, a rock formation, a monument and much more! Start your day with a visit to Dortmund Zoo. This well-known zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Westfalenpark, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dortmund on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Externsteine, an interesting rock formation in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Emperor William Monument.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hanover's best restaurants.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Jante, 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 Votum, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the evening going at Bar Seña, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sternwarte, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Dormero Hotel Hannover, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Hanover and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Hanover for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hanover and Laatzen.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Hanover on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated museum, Landesmuseum Hannover. Afterward, continue to Masch Park, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Hanover’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Hanover Zoo. This captivating zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Hanover Fairground, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Guru, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dublin Inn offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hanover.

Keep the evening going at Altstadt-treff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to My Way Cocktailbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip 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 - Hanover. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Hanover promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Markthalle Hannover. This picture-perfect food market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Eilenriede, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Sea Life Hannover, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Berggarten. This romantic botanical garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Herrenhausen Gardens, a notable botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Coeur D'Artichaut, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Muenster is Spitzner, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Eulen & Lerchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The James is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!