One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting museum, Lindt Chocolate Museum. Afterward, continue to Cologne Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

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

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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Gasometer Oberhausen. This captivating museum is an instagrammable place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Sea Life Oberhausen, a picture-perfect aquarium with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Maximilianpark Hamm. This popular park offers a picture-perfect encounter with Cologne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining spot in Hanover. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar Añejo, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Quarks Bar Hannover. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hanover.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Seña, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sternwarte is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover 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!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views in the charming city of Hamburg. Your adventure starts at Hamburg Dungeon, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Miniatur Wunderland. This astonishing museum is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St. Michael's Church. This grand church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Elbe Tunnel is also worth visiting, along with St. Pauli Piers. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Miller is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Copa Cabana Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fontenay Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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 Bremen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Hamburg Townhall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking city hall before continuing your journey. Elbe Philharmonic Hall is your next stop. This famous concert hall is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Planten Un Blomen. This eye-catching botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Stadtpark and Hagenbeck Zoo.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bremen, 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 Bremen, 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.

Savor the flavors at Hotel Robben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Rosso Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Red Rock, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 7 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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Bremen includes a museum, a park, and a zoo. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Suderman, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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