One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hamburg traveling west to Muenster, Cologne, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Hanover

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Explore the best of Germany on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hamburg, Muenster, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, Hanover, and Wolterdingen. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Hamburg, 1 night in Muenster, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Frankfurt, and 1 night in Hanover. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Hamburg, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Miniatur Wunderland and Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hamburg, Muenster, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, Hanover, and Wolterdingen, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Planten un Blomen
Hamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonieSt. Pauli PiersElbe Tunnel
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooTiger & Turtle
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumPhantasialand
Heidelberg PalaceMercedes-Benz MuseumSchlossplatz
RömerbergIron FootbridgePalmengarten FrankfurtKarlsaue
MarkthalleHerrenhäuser GärtenHeide Park
Mönckebergstraße

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Hamburg - Arrival day
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  • Planten un Blomen
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Say hello to Hamburg! 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 Hamburg for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Hamburg 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 Planten Un Blomen, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Hamburg. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider SuRolls, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at bona'me. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Hamburg
  • Münster
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Drive 287 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
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On day 2 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 Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the popular Hamburg Dungeon, a picture-perfect haunted house in Hamburg. Next, go to Miniatur Wunderland.

After visiting Hamburg Dungeon and Miniatur Wunderland, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This instagrammable concert hall offers a unique experience. St. Pauli Piers is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Elbe Tunnel, one of the most historic places to visit in Hamburg.

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

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Coeur D'Artichaut, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Muenster is Spitzner, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Atelier, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Spooky's likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Münster
  • Cologne
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Tiger & Turtle
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen and Duisburg, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Muenster today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This historic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and learn what makes this breathtaking park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Duisburg Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to Tiger & Turtle. This underrated art installation is a highlight in Muenster.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Grid Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Heidelberg
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
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On day 4 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 Cologne and Brühl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Heidelberg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Cologne Cathedral is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a locally renowned museum, known for its visually striking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Phantasialand. This photogenic amusement park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an iconic dining spot in Heidelberg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a popular restaurant in Heidelberg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches, a hidden gem nestled in Heidelberg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sonder Bar (pinte) is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Bar Goodfellas ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 336 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Schlossplatz
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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 vibrant destinations - Heidelberg and Stuttgart. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Frankfurt. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Heidelberg. Begin your sightseeing with Heidelberg Castle. This astonishing castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Mercedes-benz Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Heidelberg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Schloßplatz. This captivating public square is a traveler-favorite.

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

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

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Gute Stute, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gleis 25, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Frankfurt and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Frankfurt
  • Hanover
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Drive 362 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Karlsaue
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt and Kassel. 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.

Today's adventure in Frankfurt promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Römerberg. This history-steeped public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Iron Footbridge, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Palmengarten, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Karlsaue. This eye-catching park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Votum, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Seña after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sternwarte, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover and Wolterdingen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hanover. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a food market, a botanical garden, and an amusement park. Begin your adventure at Markthalle Hannover. This is a worthwhile food market you should not miss. Another must-see is Herrenhausen Gardens, a popular botanical garden in Hanover.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Heide Park.

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 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Miller, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Copa Cabana Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Fontenay Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

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

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Mönckebergstraße, a street that captures the true essence of Hamburg. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hamburg’s popular marketplace, Mönckebergstraße. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Edelcurry, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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!

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