9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Muenster

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a church, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This is a popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Cologne Cathedral, an impressive church in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpark, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Cologne as you explore Schildergasse. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Schildergasse offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater 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 Cologne and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Oberhausen and Gelsenkirchen, 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.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Gasometer Oberhausen, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sea Life Oberhausen, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Nordstern Park. This park is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Meteora, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bar Añejo, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Quarks Bar Hannover, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. 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 Bar Seña, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Sternwarte. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Dormero Hotel Hannover, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at St. Michael's Church, a locally renowned church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Planten Un Blomen, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hamburg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Stadtpark.

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 Hamburg. 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 a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated NOM vietnamese fusion food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Miller, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Copa Cabana Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fontenay Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to St. Pauli Piers. This well-known pier provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Elbe Tunnel, a stunning historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Hamburg Dungeon, an interesting haunted house. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the famous Miniatur Wunderland. Round off your day at St. Nikolai Memorial, another gem in Hamburg with historic features to discover.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Edelcurry, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Deichgraf Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tower Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Forest Bar - By Henn for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ciu` Die Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg and Hanstedt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This captivating museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Hamburg Townhall, a culturally significant city hall, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an astonishing concert hall. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Lüneburg Heath Wildlife Park.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule in Muenster by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Coeur D'Artichaut, acclaimed for its delectable modern french 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 Spitzner, 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Atelier is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Spooky's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Essen and Duisburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Muenster. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Muenster. Next, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Duisburg Inner Harbour. This romantic marina is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Duisburg Zoo. Visit these for an interesting touch to 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 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Limani, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Suderman, a prime destination for a thrilling 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.