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

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

Catch German Football Museum before the crowds roll in. This visually striking museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a must-visit botanical garden 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 Dortmund Zoo, a popular zoo. For a change of scene, check out Dasa Working World Exhibition, known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Essen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Essen 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 Essen.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for austrian and french contemporary cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Südrock Rock Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gentlem offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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

Make time for Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Tiger & Turtle. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Pink Pepper in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Pink Pepper offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Yoshi by Nagaya, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese and sushi cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Le Flair, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional french and contemporary menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Engelchen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Cherie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Cologne and Solingen. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg, where will spend 2 nights.

Whatever your travel style is, Lindt Chocolate Museum is an essential stop in Cologne. This notable museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church, promising a delightful encounter.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Solingen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 34 min. Upon reaching Solingen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Burg Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 6 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.

Enjoy all that St. Pauli Piers has to offer. This is a locally renowned pier you should not miss. Another must-see is Elbe Tunnel, a notable historical landmark in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Planten Un Blomen. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Hagenbeck Zoo, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Stadtpark, a majestic place of interest in the city.

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.

Hamburg 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 Hamburg.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cafe Miller, known for its inviting atmosphere. Copa Cabana Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

On day 7 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 Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the captivating St. Michael's Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Hamburg Dungeon, a picture-perfect haunted house that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Miniatur Wunderland, one of the city’s most widely recognized spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the extraordinary Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.