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

On day 2 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 well-known pier you should not miss. Another must-see is Elbe Tunnel, an interesting 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 popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Stadtpark, an eye-catching 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Miller stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Fontenay Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 places, which are Hamburg and Muenster. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Hamburg, make sure to drop by St. Michael's Church. This popular church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Miniatur Wunderland, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Hamburg Dungeon, one of the most interesting places to see in Hamburg. This haunted house is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this botanical garden offers.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dortmund's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Stage in Dortmund by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Stage delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Grammons Restaurant, acclaimed for its delectable contemporary and classic french specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Vater&sohn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Essen, Rösrath, Königswinter, and Brühl. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, a mesmerizing nature reserve that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Schloss Drachenburg, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the spectacular Phantasialand.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Koblenz and Keldung.

Koblenz is brimming with adventures.

To truly experience Cologne, make sure to drop by Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This popular castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Deutsches Eck, one of the city’s best highlights.

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

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RheinZeit. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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, including Cologne and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Catch Cologne Cathedral before the crowds roll in. This historic church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Old Market, a must-visit public square 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum, a notable museum. For a change of scene, check out Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, known for its breathtaking features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Hanover. Hanover 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 Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Handwerk offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Jante, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern 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 Votum, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

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

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