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

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Hanover and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hanover for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hanover. 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 a delightful dinner at Meteora, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar Añejo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Quarks Bar Hannover as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Market Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,658 reviews.

Continue your journey at Markthalle Hannover. This point of interest is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 travelers from near and far.

Hanover is also the home of Hanover Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Herrenhausen Gardens. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Düsseldorf. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Begin 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Engelchen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Cherie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Düsseldorf. Auberge Rock Pub is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sterkrade, Königswinter, and Bonn. 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 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sterkrade. This car ride takes around 40 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Gasometer Oberhausen is a great place to start. This gas holder is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,693 visitors.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sterkrade behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Schloss Drachenburg. This château is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Königswinter, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,667 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french, and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern, and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne, and Brühl, 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 Bielefeld. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brühl. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phantasialand. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews. Each year, 1,750,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bielefeld, 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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at GlückundSeligkeit, a top-rated dining spot in Bielefeld. If you're in the mood for something new, try New Orleans, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Knigge. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bielefeld.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Die Villa, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Three Sixty Bielefeld is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cutie also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bielefeld, and Osnabrück. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sparrenberg Castle is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,084 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,778 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Botanical Garden. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,374 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Bielefeld, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Osnabrück. Your travel time is around 41 min.

Make Osnabrück Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 18,004 reviews.

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 Hamburg. Hamburg 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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative, and international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french, and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Hamburg and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a remarkable concert hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Miniatur Wunderland. This museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 travelers.

St. Michael's Church is another must-visit attraction. This renowned church offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Elbe Tunnel. This well-loved road tunnel boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 34,850 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, St. Pauli Piers awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a point of interest, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 previous visitors.

You can learn more about Hamburg today by going on a tour. Hamburg offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,487 visitors.

Planten Un Blomen is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 visitors.

Hagenbeck Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,852 visitors.

Stadtpark is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,877 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.

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.

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

Keep the evening going at Altstadt-treff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to My Way Cocktailbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Journey into the unknown at Hanover Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,596 reviews.

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!