One-Week Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen

Say hello to Dortmund! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dortmund for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hörde or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dortmund. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Meeting, die Café-Bar, an iconic dining spot in Dortmund. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Zum Alten Markt, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Ringhotel Drees, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Vater&sohn. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Loka Lounge Dortmund, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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 Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at German Football Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sports museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,503 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Rombergpark Botanical Garden is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,572 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dortmund is Dortmund Zoo. Rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dortmund offers an experience you will remember.

Dasa Working World Exhibition is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Dortmund. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,040 reviews.

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.

Savor the flavors at Meteora, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar Añejo beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Quarks Bar Hannover. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Seña is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Sternwarte, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dormero Hotel Hannover. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hanover, and Friedrichseck. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Markthalle Hannover. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,074 visitors.

Next, make your way to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Friedrichseck. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Heide Park. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 57,821 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hamburg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar 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 Hamburg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Hamburg for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Hamburg.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,487 visitors.

Next, make your way to Hamburger Kunsthalle. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,902 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Planten Un Blomen. This park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hamburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Schwerin Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,205 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hamburg.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Elbe Tunnel. Previous visitors have rated this road tunnel an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,850 reviews.

St. Pauli Piers is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Miniatur Wunderland is another outstanding experience in Hamburg. Around 89,283 travelers have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Hamburg Dungeon is not far away. This museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,768 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Hamburg has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Dine in style at Edelcurry, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Deichgraf Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tower Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Bar - By Henn, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hamburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bremen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make St. Nikolai Memorial your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,254 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St. Michael's Church. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this church every year.

Hagenbeck Zoo is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,852 visitors.

When you’re finished at Hagenbeck Zoo, the perfect next stop is Stadtpark. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,877 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bremen. Bremen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Rosso Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Red Rock offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 7 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 Nordkirchen, and Sterkrade. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Nordkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Nordkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Make Schloss Nordkirchen one of your first sightseeing stops in Nordkirchen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,745 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Nordkirchen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,693 reviews.

Continue your journey at Sea Life Oberhausen. This aquarium is rated 4 out of 5 stars by 12,844 travelers from near and far.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary, and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

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

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Dortmund's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.

Take the opportunity to see Westfalenpark. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try ALEX Dortmund? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!