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

Welcome to Hamburg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Hamburg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall or 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 in Hamburg. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, SuRolls offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, bona'me is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Planten Un Blomen. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,852 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Stadtpark. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 visitors.

Your discoveries in Hamburg do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Hamburg on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative, and international menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Haerlin is one of the best restaurants for creative french, and classic cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at 100/200 Kitchen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Miller, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Copa Cabana Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fontenay Bar 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!

On day 3 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 Hamburg, and Muenster. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dortmund, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. Michael's Church. This extraordinary church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

Next, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Hamburg Dungeon. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 travelers.

Set your GPS to Muenster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Muenster beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,810 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dortmund, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dortmund. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen, Rösrath, Königswinter, and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rösrath. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive in Rösrath, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftsschutzgebiet Wahner Heide. This landschaftsschutzgebiet is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,558 visitors.

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.

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

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.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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.

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,566 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This headland has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Keldung, 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 Koblenz to Keldung may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Drop by the renowned Eltz Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,367 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами", a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is RheinZeit. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cologne tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. Cologne Cathedral welcomes around 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Old Market is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 visitors.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Duisburg may take around 1 hour 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative, and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Votum, 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Seña, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sternwarte is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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

Drop by the renowned Markthalle Hannover. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Herrenhausen Gardens. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

Make Heide Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Friedrichseck. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 57,821 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Edelcurry, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Deichgraf Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tower Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Black Forest Bar - By Henn offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Hamburg Townhall. This city hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,325 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Shiso Burger Hamburg, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!