One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Essen, Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Hamburg and surrounding area

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

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dortmund, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at German Football Museum, an underrated museum in the city. Then, head to Rombergpark Botanical Garden and soak in the ambiance of this serene botanical garden.

There are many interesting places to see in Dortmund, and when you are ready for more, go to Dortmund Zoo. This is one of the city’s most interesting awe-inspiring spots of interest. After exploring the zoo, visit the underrated Dasa Working World Exhibition.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Essen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Essen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Kettner's Kamota, a local favorite known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning austrian and french contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the evening going at Südrock Rock Pub, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gentlem, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Diamond Cocktail Lounge, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Essen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Essen on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating museum, Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Afterward, continue to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Essen’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 notable zoo is an essential stop. Following that, head to Tiger & Turtle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

As you explore more of Düsseldorf, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Le Flair, a local gem known for its delightful french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Solingen, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This notable museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Burg Castle, one of the most interesting places to see in Cologne. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french and classic cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hamburg, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at St. Pauli Piers, a notable pier in the city. Then, head to Elbe Tunnel and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Hamburg, and when you are ready for more, go to Planten Un Blomen. This is one of the city’s most well-known romantic spots of interest. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the notable Hagenbeck Zoo. Not far away, you'll also find Stadtpark. This park is an idyllic highlight 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Miller, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Copa Cabana Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Fontenay Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a church, a haunted house, a museum, a concert hall and much more! Start your adventure at St. Michael's Church. This well-known church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hamburg Dungeon located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Miniatur Wunderland. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this concert hall.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!