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

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 Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Essen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a church, a museum, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Cologne Cathedral. This famous church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lindt Chocolate Museum located in Cologne for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cologne Zoological Garden. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

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 Essen. Essen 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 Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern and classic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Schote, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Kettner's Kamota, a local gem known for its delightful austrian and french contemporary cuisine in Essen. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Südrock Rock Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gentlem is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 3 vibrant destinations - Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Lengerich. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Essen allows for both. Start by heading to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This captivating museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Shaft Xii, an UNESCO world heritage-listed museum, promising a delightful encounter.

When you’ve had your share of Essen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gelsenkirchen. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Nordstern Park, an underrated park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Gelsenkirchen and set your GPS to Lengerich. 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 1 hour 20 min. Upon reaching Lengerich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Canyon, a locally appreciated canyon that everyone visiting Lengerich should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative and international cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore 100/200 Kitchen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 4 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 Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Planten Un Blomen. This romantic botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Elbe Tunnel, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the city’s most spectacular attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Miniatur Wunderland. This photogenic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

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.

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

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 2 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Mitte is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Berlin. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Berlin, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Brandenburg Gate, an iconic monument in the city. Then, head to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Berlin and when you are ready for more, go to Berlin Zoological Garden. This is one of the city’s most astonishing spots.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Berlin TV Tower. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Berlin tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sharlie Cheen Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Curtain Club provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Berlin Wall Memorial. This well-known war memorial is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Berlin Cathedral, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Fernsehturm Berlin, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Berlin. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Alexanderplatz. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this public square offers. Finally, take the path to the astonishing East Side Gallery, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Booze Bar Berlin, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Victoria Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Berlin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a museum, and a public square. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary Checkpoint Charlie. Just a short distance away is Topography Of Terror, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Potsdamer Platz, one of the city’s most impressive spots that you shouldn’t miss.

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 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Seña, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Sternwarte, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Dormero Hotel Hannover likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hanover and set your GPS to Duisburg. 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 47 min. Upon reaching Duisburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Duisburg Zoo, a captivating zoo that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, an eye-catching park that stands out in the city.

Set your GPS to Oberhausen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Oberhausen beckons with new experiences!

Head to Gasometer Oberhausen, a popular museum in Oberhausen. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

As you explore more of Cologne, 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 symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern and 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Soul Bar Cologne offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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