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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bremen, 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 1 night.

Today's adventure in Bremen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bremen. This romantic public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Bremen Roland, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bremen Town Hall (ensemble). This picture-perfect city hall is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bremen Cathedral, a worthwhile church, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Haerlin, renowned for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to 100/200 Kitchen, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Berlin, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is St. Pauli Piers. This notable pier is a history-steeped place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Elbe Tunnel, a culturally significant historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This widely recognized concert hall offers an enchanting encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hamburg.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Berlin. Berlin 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 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Berlin by securing a table at Rutz. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover FACIL, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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.

Don’t miss Mitte in Berlin today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Kurfürstendamm, another street that adds to the charm of Berlin.

Today's adventure in Berlin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Brandenburg Gate. This culturally significant monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Potsdamer Platz, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Berlin Zoological Garden, one of the city’s most astonishing attractions, known for its gorgeous features.

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 Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Berlin TV Tower is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Berlin.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Curtain Club provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 6 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 and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Hanover includes a zoo, a park, and a botanical garden. Hanover Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Eilenriede, an up-and-coming park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Herrenhausen Gardens, a romantic botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ox & Klee is one of the best restaurants for modern and creative cuisine in Cologne. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at La Cuisine Rademacher. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Old Market, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Cathedral. This famous church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This instagrammable museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Phantasialand is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Essen. Essen 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 Essen. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen 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 Bremen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Essen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking museum before continuing your journey. Shaft Xii is your next stop. This worthwhile museum is one of the best-rated sights in Essen.

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 Red Dot Design Museum. This photogenic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Osnabrück Zoo.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Jürgenshof offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bremen.

Continue your lively evening at Wohnzimmer Bremen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. König Lounge is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cottons Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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