9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen traveling south to Hamburg, Berlin, Hanover, Cologne, and Essen

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 Bremen. 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.

Start by visiting Bremen, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bremen Roland, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming monument renowned for its detailed features.

Bremen Town Hall (ensemble) also adds charm to your journey, and Bremen Cathedral wraps up your day with its picture-perfect appeal.

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

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Berlin. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hamburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a pier, a historical landmark, a concert hall, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at St. Pauli Piers. This is a popular pier you should not miss. Another must-see is Elbe Tunnel, a well-known historical landmark in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Miniatur Wunderland, another of the city’s astonishing attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berlin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Berlin. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Rutz, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, known for its delicious creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Berlin is FACIL, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and contemporary menu.

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.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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 Kurfürstendamm today, a street that’s well worth a visit.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Berlin, including a monument, a public square, and a zoo. Start your day at Brandenburg Gate. This breathtaking monument is a world-famous place to see in Berlin. Then, wander over to Potsdamer Platz. If standout sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Berlin Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo is a favorite among visitors.

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 Berlin, 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.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Sharlie Cheen Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Curtain Club is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hanover, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Hanover Zoo, a locally renowned zoo in the city. Then, head to Eilenriede and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable park.

There are many interesting places to see in Hanover and when you are ready for more, go to Herrenhausen Gardens. This is one of the city’s most captivating spots. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the locally renowned Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 7 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 Essen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a church, a museum, an amusement park and much more! Start your adventure at Old Market. This popular public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This interesting museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Phantasialand, where you can take in visually striking features.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Hannappel offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and classic menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Schote, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kettner's Kamota, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional austrian and french contemporary menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Südrock Rock Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gentlem offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Osnabrück. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bremen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the popular Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a picture-perfect museum in Essen. Next, go to Shaft Xii.

After visiting Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and Shaft Xii, take time to explore Essen's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Red Dot Design Museum. This visually striking museum offers a unique experience. Osnabrück Zoo is another noteworthy stop.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bremen, 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 Bremen, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Jürgenshof, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wohnzimmer Bremen, known for its inviting atmosphere. König Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cottons Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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