One-Week Germany Road Trip from Berlin traveling west to Dresden, Magdeburg, and Hamburg

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 Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe or 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 in Berlin. 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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Monkey Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Saint Jean, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Green Door Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Checkpoint Charlie. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 visitors.

Topography Of Terror is another popular attraction you could visit today. This military museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,601 visitors.

Potsdamer Platz is also highly recommended by travelers. This square has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 visitors.

Berlin Zoological Garden is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

You can learn more about Berlin today by going on a tour. Berlin offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Berlin by securing a reservation at Rutz. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover FACIL, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and contemporary menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sharlie Cheen Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Berlin Icebar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Curtain Club is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,126 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 44,005 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Alexanderplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to East Side Gallery. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 visitors.

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 Dresden. Dresden 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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Dresden by securing a reservation at ElbUferei. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean, and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Genuss-Atelier, renowned for its delicious modern, and creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Elements, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern, and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hebeda's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Blondes also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Dresden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Magdeburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Our Lady. This extraordinary church building is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 30,472 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,993 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Zwinger. This palace is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 49,853 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Semperoper. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 13,959 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Golden Rider. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,238 travelers.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at M2 Cafe & Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Magado is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Perla Magdeburg. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Magdeburg tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Lion - City Pub Gmbh, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Musikkneipe Flowerpower is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Stern Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 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, and Bad Fallingbostel. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

After soaking in Magdeburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hanover. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive in Hanover, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hanover Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Eilenriede. This urban forest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,359 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Herrenhausen Gardens. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Hanover, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bad Fallingbostel. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This much-appreciated naturpark is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,513 reviews.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative, and international menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Haerlin, known for its delicious creative french, and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Hamburg is 100/200 Kitchen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative, and modern menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar 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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Hagenbeck Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,852 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St. Pauli Piers. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Elbe Tunnel is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 visitors.

When you’re finished at Elbe Tunnel, the perfect next stop is Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stadtpark. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews.

Your discoveries in Hamburg do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Hamburg on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cafe Miller, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hamburg, and Potsdam. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Miniatur Wunderland. Miniatur Wunderland is a museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Potsdam, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Hamburg to Potsdam may take around 2 hours 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Potsdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Sanssouci. This palace is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Potsdam, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 visitors.

Sanssouci Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,286 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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 Berlin. Berlin 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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top-rated dining spot in Berlin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Marjellchen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Berlin.

Keep the evening going at Booze Bar Berlin, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Victoria Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Berlin’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162,714 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Berlin.

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!