One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Hamburg, Berlin, and Dresden

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Photo of Hanover, Germany. Building of New Town Hall reflecting in water on sunset.
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Explore the best of Germany on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Hanover, Bremen, Hamburg, Lübeck, Berlin, Leipzig, Dresden, and Goslar.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Germany. You will spend 2 nights in Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, 2 nights in Berlin, and 1 night in Dresden. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Hanover, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland, learn more about the unique Elbe Philharmonic Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of East Side Gallery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Bremen, Hamburg, Lübeck, Berlin, Leipzig, Dresden, and Goslar, 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, accommodations, 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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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Hanover - Arrival day
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  • Berggarten Hannover
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Say hello to Hanover! 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 Hanover for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Hanover 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 Berggarten, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Hanover. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Meteora, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Añejo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Quarks Bar Hannover. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hanover tonight.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 257 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Bremen Town Hall
  • Böttcherstraße
  • Schnoor
  • Universum Science Center
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bremen are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Bremen Town Hall (ensemble) leaves a lasting impression. This city hall is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Hanover. Next, head to Böttcherstraße, a beloved street, known for its detailed 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 Schnoor. This romantic street is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Universum Science Center. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and relax 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 Hamburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try SuRolls? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at bona'me as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Hamburg
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Chilehaus
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • St Michael's Church
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Let Chilehaus set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this symbolic historical landmark before continuing your journey. Miniatur Wunderland is your next stop. This top-rated museum is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This enchanting concert hall is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit St. Michael's Church and Elbe Tunnel. If time allows, end your day with Planten Un Blomen, a serene botanical garden that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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.

Hamburg is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Miller, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Copa Cabana Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fontenay Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Hamburg
  • Berlin
  • More

Drive 352 km, 4 hours 42 min

  • Heiligen-Geist-Hospital
  • Café Niederegger - Stammhaus
  • Marzipanmuseum Niederegger
  • Salzspeicher
  • Lübeck Cathedral
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Lübeck. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Berlin, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Heilig-geist-hospital is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Café Niederegger - Stammhaus, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hamburg on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Marzipanmuseum Niederegger, an underrated museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Salzspeicher and Lübeck Cathedral.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Berlin is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Berlin.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at NENI Berlin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Alt-Berliner Wirtshaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Steglitz International. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Berlin.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Monkey Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Saint Jean for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Green Door Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Berlin
  • More

Drive 15 km, 51 min

  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
  • Alexanderplatz
  • East Side Gallery
  • Mitte
  • Kreuzberg
  • More

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you decide to explore Berlin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Mitte, a popular neighborhood in Berlin. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Kreuzberg today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Catch Brandenburg Gate before the crowds roll in. This instagrammable monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of Berlin Wall Memorial, a must-visit war memorial 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 Alexanderplatz, a globally renowned public square. For a change of scene, check out East Side Gallery, known for its eye-catching features.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Sharlie Cheen Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Berlin Icebar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Curtain Club is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Berlin
  • Dresden
  • More

Drive 314 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Bach-Museum Leipzig
  • Neues Bach-Denkmal
  • St. Thomas Church
  • Wildpark Leipzig
  • Monument to the Battle of the Nations
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Leipzig. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dresden, where will spend 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Bach-museum Leipzig, an eye-catching museum in Berlin. Next, go to Neues Bach-denkmal.

After visiting Bach-museum Leipzig and Neues Bach-denkmal, have a stroll along Berlin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Thomas Church. This photogenic church offers a unique experience. Wildpark Leipzig is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Monument To The Battle Of The Nations, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Berlin.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Luisenhof, Dresden is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bakery Wippler GmbH. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dresden tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hebeda's, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Blondes provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dresden
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 379 km, 4 hours 39 min

  • Frauenkirche, Dresden
  • Zwinger
  • Goslarer Museum
  • Market Square
  • Das Breite Tor
  • More

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

Your adventure in Dresden is only getting started when you visit Church Of Our Lady, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Zwinger. This well-known palace is known for its inviting appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dresden's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Goslarer Museum. This instagrammable museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Market Square is also worth visiting, along with Das Breite Tor. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Guru, a top-rated dining spot in Hanover. If you're in the mood for something new, try Dublin Inn, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hanover.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Altstadt-treff, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, My Way Cocktailbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hanover - Departure day
  • More
  • Maschpark
  • More

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

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Masch Park. This increasingly popular park is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Hanover, Kropcke is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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