One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Berlin traveling east to Görlitz, Dresden, and Cottbus
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 3 nights in Berlin, 1 night in Görlitz, 2 nights in Dresden, and 1 night in Cottbus. 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 Berlin, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Checkpoint Charlie, learn more about the unique Berlin Zoological Garden, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Potsdamer Platz.
As you hit the open road and drive through Berlin, Görlitz, Königstein, Dresden, Moritzburg, Cottbus, and Stottoff - Štotup, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Berlin - Arrival day
- More
- Unter den Linden
- More
Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Berlin and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Berlin for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Berlin 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 Unter den Linden, a must-see street, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Berlin. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Berlin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at NENI Berlin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Alt-Berliner Wirtshaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hotel Steglitz International is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Berlin.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Monkey Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Saint Jean is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Green Door Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Berlin
- More
Drive 22 km, 1 hour
- Berlin Zoological Garden
- Checkpoint Charlie
- Alexanderplatz
- East Side Gallery
- Mitte
- More
Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Don’t miss Mitte in Berlin today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Berlin, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a public square, a street art and much more! Start your day with a visit to Berlin Zoological Garden. This famous zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Checkpoint Charlie, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Berlin 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 Alexanderplatz, a globally renowned public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for East Side Gallery.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Bring home unique finds from Berlin's bustling shopping hub, Friedrichstrasse. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Friedrichstrasse offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Rutz in Berlin by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Rutz 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 Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing 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 FACIL, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and contemporary menu.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Curtain Club offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 3
- Berlin
- Görlitz
- More
Drive 215 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Topography of Terror
- Potsdamer Platz
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Berlin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Görlitz. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Berlin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a public square, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Topography Of Terror. This is a locally renowned museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Potsdamer Platz, a spectacular public square in Berlin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Görlitz. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Görlitz's best restaurants.
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.
Day 4
- Görlitz
- Dresden
- More
Drive 162 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Whispering Arch
- Thick Tower
- Tierpark Görlitz
- Königstein Fortress
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Görlitz and Königstein. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dresden, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Görlitz’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Whispering Arch. This noteworthy art installation is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Thick Tower, a must-visit monument in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Tierpark Görlitz, a beloved zoo. For a change of scene, check out Königstein Fortress, known for its respected features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dresden. 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 Dresden by securing a reservation at ElbUferei. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Genuss-Atelier, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative 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 Elements, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern and international menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hebeda's stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Blondes 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!
Day 5
- Dresden
- More
Drive 9 km, 34 min
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- Semperoper
- Old Masters Picture Gallery
- Zwinger
- Altstadt
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dresden. You’ll stay in Dresden for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Altstadt, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Dresden. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Get ready for an exciting day in Dresden. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, an opera house, an art gallery, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This is a locally renowned park you should not miss. Another must-see is Semperoper, a locally renowned opera house in Dresden.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Old Masters Picture Gallery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Zwinger, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dresden's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Ristorante "Mamma Mia", a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant brennNessel Dresden boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Beams Pub & Dining. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dresden.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Gin House Dresden stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Madness Bar Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Nightfly Shisha And Cocktail is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 6
- Dresden
- Cottbus - Chóśebuz
- More
Drive 115 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Altmarkt
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
- Golden Rider
- Moritzburg Castle
- More
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 Dresden and Moritzburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cottbus, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dresden, including a public square, a church, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Altmarkt. This up-and-coming public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Church Of Our Lady, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Dresden 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 Brühl's Terrace, a notable public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Golden Rider and Moritzburg Castle.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cottbus, 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 Cottbus. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Griechisches Restaurant Vasilis, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sebastian's Cottbus beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cơm Phở Việt. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cottbus tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Der Käfig, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Hemingway Cocktailbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, El Chico Cocktailbar - Cocktails & Longdrinks offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 7
- Cottbus - Chóśebuz
- Berlin
- More
Drive 158 km, 3 hours
- Spreeauen Park
- Spreewelten Bad Lübbenau
- Spreewald Biosphere Reserve
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cottbus, Stottoff - Štotup, and Lübben (Spreewald), 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 Berlin. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Cottbus promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Spreeauen Park. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Spreewelten Bad Lübbenau, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Spreewald Biosphere Reserve, one of the city’s most often recommended attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berlin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Booze Bar Berlin, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Victoria Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, another top-rated place in the area.
Say good night to Berlin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 8
- Berlin - Departure day
- More
- Brandenburg Gate
- More
Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Berlin 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, we recommend visiting Brandenburg Gate, an instagrammable monument before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Berlin’s shopping center, the lively Kurfürstendamm. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Berlin.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gasthaus Krombach, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Berlin. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Germany
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.