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

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and scenic views! Start at Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Rheinpark.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Cologne as you explore Schildergasse. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Schildergasse offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 3 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 Oberhausen and Hamm. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Gasometer Oberhausen, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sea Life Oberhausen, another must-visit landmark and captivating aquarium renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Maximilianpark Hamm. This stunning park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience.

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.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Meteora, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar Añejo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Quarks Bar Hannover. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hanover.

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.

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

On day 5 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views. Start at the interesting Hamburg Dungeon, an instagrammable haunted house in Hamburg. Next, go to Miniatur Wunderland.

After visiting Hamburg Dungeon and Miniatur Wunderland, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Michael's Church. This stunning church offers a unique experience. Elbe Tunnel is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to St. Pauli Piers, one of the most romantic places to visit in Hamburg.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bremen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hamburg Townhall. This underrated city hall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Planten Un Blomen, one of the most well-known places to see in Hamburg. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Stadtpark. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Hagenbeck Zoo, a top-rated zoo that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rosso Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Red Rock is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Sammy`s Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Bremen on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally renowned museum, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Afterward, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bremen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This interesting zoo is an essential stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne, 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 a delicious meal at Limani, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Suderman, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!