Relaxed 9-Day Germany Road Trip Starting from Dortmund to Hamburg

Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dortmund and begin your adventure in Germany.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hörde. This ortsteil is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 709 reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dortmund. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Dortmund.

Dine in style at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Zum Alten Markt boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ringhotel Drees. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Dortmund as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Dortmund, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dortmund, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dasa Working World Exhibition. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,040 visitors.

Rombergpark Botanical Garden is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,572 visitors.

Dortmund Zoo is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 15,732 visitors.

Casino Hohensyburg is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This casino is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,302 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Dortmund, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Germany.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dortmund, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary, and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dortmund.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime location for a drink.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dortmund. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dortmund. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dortmund!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,363 reviews.

Dortmund U-tower is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This office building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,626 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is German Football Museum. This sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,503 reviews.

St. Reinoldi is another outstanding experience in Dortmund. Around 1,508 travelers have rated this church building an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Germany. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Dortmund itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring the food culture in Dortmund offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider ALEX Dortmund, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dortmund’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dortmund as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany!

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Muenster. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. -paulus-dom (münster). This extraordinary cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,912 visitors.

Next, make your way to Schlossplatz. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,366 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,810 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,547 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Hamburg. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, The Table Kevin Fehling delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative, and international cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Haerlin, acclaimed for its delectable creative french, and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative, and modern cuisine in the city.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Hamburg’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 visitors.

Miniatur Wunderland is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 travelers.

Hamburg is also the home of Hamburg Dungeon. Around 12,768 people have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is St. Nikolai Memorial. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 9,254 reviews, a visit to this church is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Hamburg is also your chance to admire Hamburg Townhall. This must-visit city hall enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,325 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Hamburg by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Hamburg has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Germany.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Cafe Miller. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Copa Cabana Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Fontenay Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Germany.

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Hamburg, and meet locals along the way!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St. Pauli Piers, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 travelers.

Panoptikum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,133 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit St. Michael's Church. This well-loved church boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 20,524 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Planten Un Blomen awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 previous visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Hamburg.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Edelcurry, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Deichgraf Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Hamburg and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Tower Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Ciu` Die Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Hamburg!

Make Hagenbeck Zoo your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,852 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,877 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Hamburger Kunsthalle is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,902 visitors.

When you’re finished at Hamburger Kunsthalle, the perfect next stop is Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,487 reviews.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Hamburg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brücke 10, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Shiso Burger Hamburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Meyer Lansky's, known for its lively atmosphere. The Chug Club is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Germany is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night.

Bielefeld’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hamburg behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 48 min. Bielefeld welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Sparrenberg Castle. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,084 reviews.

Continue your journey at Dr. Oetker World. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,849 travelers from near and far.

Bielefeld is also the home of Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,778 visitors.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dortmund in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring the food culture in Dortmund offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, an iconic dining spot in Dortmund. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of KLUBHAUS1249, a popular restaurant in Dortmund. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of AMI Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dortmund.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Dortmund’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dortmund is the remarkable Westfalenpark. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,451 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dortmund or just grab something light to keep you going.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Atlantico Café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, FOOD BROTHER offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dortmund and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.