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, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views await you in Cologne on today’s itinerary. First up is the notable 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 locally renowned 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.

Visit Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) in Cologne for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french 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, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater 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!

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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an aquarium, and a park. Begin your adventure at Gasometer Oberhausen. This is a popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Sea Life Oberhausen, an interesting aquarium in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Maximilianpark Hamm.

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 explore more of Hanover, 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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Seña, known for its lively atmosphere. Sternwarte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover 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 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Hamburg Dungeon. This interesting haunted house provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Miniatur Wunderland, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St. Michael's Church, a captivating church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Elbe Tunnel. Round off your day at St. Pauli Piers, another gem in Hamburg with instagrammable features to discover.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, NOM vietnamese fusion food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Miller, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Copa Cabana Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fontenay Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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 route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Hamburg Townhall. This worthwhile city hall is a culturally significant place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an awe-inspiring concert hall with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Planten Un Blomen. This locally renowned botanical garden offers a mesmerizing encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Stadtpark to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Hagenbeck Zoo, a well-known zoo that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hamburg.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a top-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

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

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

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

Immerse yourself in Bremen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This picture-perfect museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a must-visit park in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Duisburg Zoo, a notable zoo.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Suderman stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!