One-Week Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling east to Leipzig, Berlin, and Hamburg

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 Friedrich Schiller 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.

Dine in style at Meteora, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Quarks Bar Hannover boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Guru. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Seña, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sternwarte, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover, 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 Leipzig. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Market Church your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,658 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Markthalle Hannover. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 9,074 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Herrenhausen Gardens is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors.

When you’re finished at Herrenhausen Gardens, the perfect next stop is Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 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 Leipzig. Leipzig 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 Leipzig. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Kuultivo, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern, and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Stadtpfeiffer is one of the best restaurants for creative, and modern french cuisine in Leipzig. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Frieda. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative cuisine in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mephisto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Brick's Der Cocktail provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Skala offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Leipzig, and Dresden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marktplatz Leipzig. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Leipzig, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,732 visitors.

After soaking in Leipzig’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dresden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 30 min. When you arrive in Dresden, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Zwinger. This extraordinary palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,853 visitors.

Next, make your way to Semperoper. This opera house is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 13,959 reviews.

While in Dresden, we also recommend a visit to Church Of Our Lady. This church building has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 30,472 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Berlin, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Rutz in Berlin by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Rutz 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 Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at FACIL, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and contemporary cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Monkey Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Saint Jean, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Green Door Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Berlin Zoological Garden your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Brandenburg Gate. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162,714 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this triumphal arch every year.

Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This holocaust memorial has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 45,507 visitors.

When you’re finished at Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, the perfect next stop is Siegessäule. This victory column is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,706 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Alexanderplatz. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213,494 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Germany that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Berlin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Berlin TV Tower as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Berlin.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sharlie Cheen Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Berlin Icebar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Curtain Club 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!

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 1 night left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Berlin, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,126 visitors.

Potsdamer Platz is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Topography Of Terror. Visitors have rated this military museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,601 reviews.

Checkpoint Charlie is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 83,167 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic East Side Gallery, perhaps the most famous art museum in Berlin. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 54,103 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Berlin on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Marjellchen, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Berlin, and Potsdam. 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 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fernsehturm Berlin. Previous visitors have rated this television tower an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Berlin Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,615 reviews.

Set your GPS to Potsdam and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Potsdam beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Sanssouci, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,145 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sanssouci Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,286 travelers.

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 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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its inviting atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 7 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Miniatur Wunderland is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Planten Un Blomen. The park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews.

Stadtpark is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,877 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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 Hanover. Hanover 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

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.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Masch Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,391 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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!