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

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Germany includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Gelsenkirchen. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Nordkirchen.

Set your GPS to Nordkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nordkirchen 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 Schloss Nordkirchen, a worthwhile castle that everyone visiting Nordkirchen should see.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Feldhausen. This drive usually takes around 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Feldhausen is Movie Park, an impressive amusement park that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Gelsenkirchen. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Nordstern Park and explore the symbolic 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and classic menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Schote, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Essen is Kettner's Kamota, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious austrian and french contemporary menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Südrock Rock Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gentlem, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Essen and Bochum. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dortmund, where you'll spend 1 night.

Your adventure in Essen is only getting started when you visit Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This intriguing laser tag arena is known for its historic appeal.

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.

Savor the day by heading to + Fossilium Bochum Zoo, a worthwhile zoo that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Loka Lounge Dortmund for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Central Bar & More Dortmund is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Dortmund, Horn, and Porta Westfalica are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Dortmund Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Westfalenpark, a notable park, located just a leisurely stroll away.

When you’ve had your share of Dortmund, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Horn. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Externsteine, a captivating rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Horn, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Porta Westfalica. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Emperor William Monument, an underrated monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Have a memorable dining experience in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Hanover, Jante shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Votum is known as a top local spot in Hanover for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sternwarte offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover. Dormero Hotel Hannover is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Hanover, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Hanover and Laatzen.

Make a stop at Landesmuseum Hannover. This up-and-coming museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Masch Park located in Hanover for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Hanover Zoo. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Laatzen. This drive usually takes around 14 min.

Hanover Fairground is a curiosity-inducing exposition center we recommend visiting today.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hanover.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Guru, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dublin Inn offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Altstadt-treff, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of My Way Cocktailbar, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Hanover. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Hanover is complete without Markthalle Hannover. This intriguing food market is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Eilenriede, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hanover, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Sea Life Hannover. This underrated aquarium is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Berggarten, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Herrenhausen Gardens is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

Muenster 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 Muenster.

Experience a harmony of flavors at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule in Muenster by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Coeur D'Artichaut, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Spitzner, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Eulen & Lerchen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The James. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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