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

Day 2 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Discover a day packed with a romantic, a breathtaking, an instagrammable, a historically significant, a symbolic, and a scenic in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with St. Pauli Piers. This well-known pier is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Elbe Tunnel, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Planten Un Blomen. This locally renowned botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hagenbeck Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Stadtpark and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most captivating attractions.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hamburg. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore 100/200 Kitchen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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 awe-inspiring church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Hamburg Dungeon, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Muenster. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden in Muenster. Explore its majestic 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 Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dortmund by booking a table at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, renowned for its delectable contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Essen, Rösrath, Königswinter, and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Essen. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is a notable museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rösrath. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.

Make your way to Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide, an intriguing nature reserve that draws attention for its serene features.

After soaking in Rösrath’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Königswinter. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 37 min. When you arrive in Königswinter, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your journey at Schloss Drachenburg and explore the visually striking features.

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.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cologne Cathedral. This stunning church is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Koblenz, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Koblenz may take around 1 hour 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Koblenz, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a notable castle known for its culturally significant features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Deutsches Eck, a captivating monument that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Eltz Castle, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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.

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

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 Cologne and Duisburg. 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square and a museum. Begin your adventure at Old Market. This is an interesting public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, a captivating museum in Cologne.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 1 hour 10 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Jante, recognized for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Votum, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Seña. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sternwarte, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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