One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bielefeld, and Hamburg and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Hanover, Düsseldorf, Oberhausen, Königswinter, Bonn, Cologne, Brühl, Bielefeld, Osnabrück, and Hamburg.
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 Hanover, 1 night in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Bielefeld, and 2 nights in Hamburg. 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 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. 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 Hagenbeck Zoo.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Düsseldorf, Oberhausen, Königswinter, Bonn, Cologne, Brühl, Bielefeld, Osnabrück, and Hamburg, 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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Day 1
- Hanover - Arrival day
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- Maschpark
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Welcome to Hanover, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Masch Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Hanover. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Meteora, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Añejo offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Quarks Bar Hannover is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hanover
- Dusseldorf
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Drive 286 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Market Church Hannover
- Markthalle
- Hanover Zoo
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
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On day 2 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 Hanover. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hanover, including a church, a food market, a zoo, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Market Church. This picture-perfect church is a beloved place to see in Hanover. Then, wander over to Markthalle Hannover. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this food market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Hanover Zoo. This stunning zoo is a favorite among visitors.
Hanover offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Herrenhausen Gardens is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf, 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Düsseldorf, Yoshi by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese and sushi cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Le Flair is known as a top local spot for its delicious french and contemporary cuisine in Düsseldorf. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Dusseldorf
- Cologne
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Drive 205 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Gasometer Oberhausen
- Schloss Drachenburg
- House of the History of the Federal Republic of Germany
- Rheinaue
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Oberhausen, Königswinter, and Bonn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Düsseldorf. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Gasometer Oberhausen is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Düsseldorf. Next, head to Schloss Drachenburg, an interesting castle, known for its awe-inspiring 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 House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany. This standout museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rheinaue. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 4
- Cologne
- Bielefeld
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Phantasialand
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cologne and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bielefeld. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, a zoo, an amusement park and much more! Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Cologne Cathedral, a must-see church in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This interesting zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Phantasialand, where you can take in instagrammable features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bielefeld. Bielefeld offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bielefeld. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at GlückundSeligkeit, a top-rated dining destination in Bielefeld. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider New Orleans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Knigge. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bielefeld this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Die Villa, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Three Sixty Bielefeld is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cutie is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Bielefeld
- Hamburg
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Drive 308 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Sparrenburg Castle
- Heimat-Tierpark Olderdissen
- Botanical Garden
- Osnabrück Zoo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bielefeld and Osnabrück. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Bielefeld on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sparrenberg Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic castle before continuing your journey. Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen is your next stop. This interesting zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Bielefeld.
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 Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Osnabrück Zoo.
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.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 6
- Hamburg
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Drive 7 km, 58 min
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
- St Michael's Church
- Elbe Tunnel
- St. Pauli Piers
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Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This extraordinary concert hall is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Miniatur Wunderland, another must-visit attraction.
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 St. Michael's Church. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Elbe Tunnel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. St. Pauli Piers is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cafe Miller, known for its lively atmosphere. Copa Cabana Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Fontenay Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 7
- Hamburg
- Hanover
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 37 min
- CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum
- Planten un Blomen
- Tierpark Hagenbeck
- Stadtpark
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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.
Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Planten Un Blomen, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Hagenbeck Zoo, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its eye-catching features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Stadtpark. 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.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hanover. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Guru, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Dublin Inn offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Altstadt-treff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to My Way Cocktailbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Hanover - Departure day
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- Hanover Park
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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 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 Hanover Park. This beloved park is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Hanover's best shopping area, Lister Meile. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.
Dine in style at Masa Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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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