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

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Cologne is brimming with adventures.

Lindt Chocolate Museum makes a great addition to your morning plans. This popular museum is a picture-perfect place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Cologne Cathedral, a stunning church 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 Cologne Zoological Garden. This well-known zoo offers a breathtaking encounter with Cologne. Next, make your way to Rheinpark to add another highlight to your day. 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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Oberhausen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

Gasometer Oberhausen is a notable museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its gorgeous features before continuing your self-guided tour to Sea Life Oberhausen, an eye-catching aquarium that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hamm. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

Savor the day by heading to Maximilianpark Hamm, a notable park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. 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 Hanover's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Añejo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Quarks Bar Hannover. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

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

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 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night.

One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Hamburg Dungeon. This visually striking haunted house will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Miniatur Wunderland and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable St. Michael's Church. After exploring the church, head to Elbe Tunnel. This locally renowned historical landmark is a highlight in Hamburg. As your day continues, stop by St. Pauli Piers, known for its visually striking features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Dine in style at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Miller after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Copa Cabana Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Fontenay Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Hamburg are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Hamburg Townhall, a breathtaking city hall in Hamburg. Next, go to Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

After visiting Hamburg Townhall and Elbe Philharmonic Hall, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Planten Un Blomen. This awe-inspiring botanical garden offers a unique experience. Stadtpark is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Hagenbeck Zoo, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Hamburg.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Bremen. Bremen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Bremen 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 Bremen.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Robben, an iconic dining spot in Bremen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, a popular restaurant in Bremen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Market Hall Eight Bremen, a hidden gem nestled in Bremen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Rosso Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Red Rock offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Sammy`s Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 7 of your road trip in Germany includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Essen. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Essen is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a notable museum that draws attention for its UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Duisburg Zoo. This locally renowned zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and relax 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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!