One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Bielefeld, and Hamburg and surrounding area

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hanover. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Düsseldorf, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Hanover promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Market Church. This stunning church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Markthalle Hannover, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Hanover Zoo, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Herrenhausen Gardens. This awe-inspiring botanical garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Düsseldorf by securing a reservation at Pink Pepper. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Le Flair, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Oberhausen, Königswinter, and Bonn. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Gasometer Oberhausen. This locally renowned museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Schloss Drachenburg, a visually striking castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to House Of The History Of The Federal Republic Of Germany, an interesting museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Rheinaue.

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 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.

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

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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 Bielefeld, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This well-known museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Cologne. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Phantasialand. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this amusement park offers.

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

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Die Villa after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Three Sixty Bielefeld, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cutie also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bielefeld and Osnabrück, 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Bielefeld is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a zoo, and a botanical garden. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Sparrenberg Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen, an awe-inspiring zoo that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Botanical Garden, one of the city’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable 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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different culinary experience in Hamburg, Haerlin shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative french and classic cuisine. This 2-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, 100/200 Kitchen is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Hamburg covers several incredible sights, including a concert hall, a museum, a church, a historical landmark, a pier and much more! Start your adventure at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This famous concert hall is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Miniatur Wunderland, a must-see museum 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 St. Michael's Church. This notable church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Elbe Tunnel, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to St. Pauli Piers. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, NOM vietnamese fusion food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Miller, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Copa Cabana Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fontenay Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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 1 destination, Hamburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This locally renowned museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Planten Un Blomen, 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 Hagenbeck Zoo. This notable zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Stadtpark, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

Dine in style at Guru, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dublin Inn boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Altstadt-treff, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to My Way Cocktailbar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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