9-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling east to Kassel, Hamburg, Berlin, and Hanover

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

Drop by the renowned Cologne Cathedral. This popular catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 5,000,000 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Lindt Chocolate Museum. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Malakoffturm. This tower has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 174 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 local and international travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kassel, 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 Kassel. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Shamrock - Irish Pub Kassel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ginko - das glutenfreie Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gusto Tavola Calda is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kassel.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Stadt Stockholm Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe Bohemia Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Seibert. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Dive into day 3 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Hanover’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hamburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 43 min. When you arrive in Hamburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hanover Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 27,161 visitors.

Next, make your way to Market Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,658 reviews.

While in Hanover, we also recommend a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Hanover.

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.

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

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, 100/200 Kitchen shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative, and modern 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, Haerlin is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative french, and classic cuisine in Hamburg. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 visitors.

Planten Un Blomen is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to St. Pauli Piers. Visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Elbe Tunnel is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a road tunnel rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,850 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Miniatur Wunderland, perhaps the most famous museum in Hamburg. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 travelers.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Berlin by booking a table at Rutz. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to FACIL, celebrated for its delectable creative, and contemporary menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Horváth, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 2 nights left in Berlin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Make Berlin Zoological Garden one of your first sightseeing stops in Berlin. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 63,593 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Checkpoint Charlie is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,126 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Berlin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Potsdam may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Potsdam, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Sanssouci Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,286 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Berlin and your accommodation.

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

Dine in style at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berlin TV Tower. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Berlin.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sharlie Cheen Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Curtain Club, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Pergamon Museum. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 29,292 visitors. Each year, around 1,298,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,615 reviews.

While in Berlin, we also recommend a visit to Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Alexanderplatz. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 travelers, this square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Berlin.

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

Savor the flavors at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Marjellchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Booze Bar Berlin is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Victoria Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Berlin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Brandenburg Gate. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 162,714 visitors.

Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This holocaust memorial has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 45,507 travelers.

Berlin is also the home of Potsdamer Platz. Around 60,557 people have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Topography Of Terror. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 36,601 reviews, a visit to this military museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Berlin is also your chance to admire Siegessäule. This must-visit victory column enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,706 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 an outstanding dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern, and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Votum, known for its delicious creative, and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Hanover is Jante, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative, and modern menu.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Seña after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sternwarte, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen, 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hanover and set your GPS to Essen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 38 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Duisburg Zoo. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

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 Cologne. Cologne 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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french, and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern, and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Zur Tant, a local gem known for its delightful classic cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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