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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at St. Pauli Piers, a locally renowned pier that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Elbe Tunnel, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Planten Un Blomen. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hamburg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hagenbeck Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the well-known Stadtpark. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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 Hamburg as you explore Alsterhaus. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and high-end shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Alsterhaus offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cafe Miller. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fontenay Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg and Muenster, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Michael's Church. This picture-perfect church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Miniatur Wunderland, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Hamburg Dungeon, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

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 Muenster may take around 3 hours 8 min. Upon your arrival in Muenster, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster and explore the eye-catching features.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.

Keep the evening going at Vater&sohn, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Loka Lounge Dortmund, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Central Bar & More Dortmund, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Essen, Rösrath, Königswinter, and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Essen allows for both.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Essen. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Rösrath’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Essen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. Rösrath welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, an up-and-coming nature reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Königswinter. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take your self-guided tour to Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Königswinter should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Koblenz should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Deutsches Eck. This historic monument is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Keldung and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Keldung beckons with new experiences!

Eltz Castle is a popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 2 destinations, Cologne and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Cologne is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a public square, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the astonishing Cologne Cathedral. Just a short distance away is Old Market, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a captivating park in Duisburg. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Hanover by securing a table at Handwerk. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Jante, famous for its scrumptious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Votum, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.