Relaxed 9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg

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Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in Germany with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Germany at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Dortmund, Muenster, Hamburg, Borstel in der Kuhle, and Behringen. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Dortmund and 4 nights in Hamburg. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Germany.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Germany. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Dortmund, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Germany and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Germany with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Germany.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Germany. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Miniatur Wunderland. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Hagenbeck Zoo. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Elbe Tunnel. Get close to the spectacular Planten Un Blomen and the wonderful Stadtpark. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Germany's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Germany.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Germany. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Germany's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Germany.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Germany. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Germany. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Germany and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Westfalenpark
LWL Industrial Museum ZollernDASA Working World ExhibitionDortmund ZooCasino Hohensyburg
St. Reinold's ChurchGerman Football MuseumDortmund U-TowerBrewery-Museum Dortmund
St.-Paulus-DomStadthafenSchlossplatzBotanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
Hamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandSt Nikolai MemorialTierpark Hagenbeck
CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs SchokoladenmuseumHamburger KunsthallePlanten un BlomenStadtparkMönckebergstraße

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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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.

Dortmund is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Westfalenpark, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dortmund. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dortmund, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zum Alten Markt beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ringhotel Drees. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dortmund tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dortmund and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Vater&sohn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Loka Lounge Dortmund is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Central Bar & More Dortmund is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 51 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • LWL Industrial Museum Zollern
  • DASA Working World Exhibition
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • Casino Hohensyburg
  • More

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 adventure at Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Dasa Working World Exhibition, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Dortmund Zoo. This popular zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Casino Hohensyburg, where you can take in instagrammable features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dortmund offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at The Stage, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Grammons Restaurant is one of the best restaurants for contemporary and classic french cuisine in Dortmund. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dortmund. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Gaststätte Lütge-eck. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Germany.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 6 km, 33 min

  • St. Reinold's Church
  • German Football Museum
  • Dortmund U-Tower
  • Brewery-Museum Dortmund
  • More

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dortmund allows for both. Start by heading to St. Reinoldi. This curiosity-inducing church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover German Football Museum, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Dortmund U-tower, an underrated art installation. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Brewery-museum Dortmund.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dortmund. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dortmund that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dortmund to find the best options for you!

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

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 Dortmund.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Brasserie Lotte, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try ALEX Dortmund, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dortmund
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 356 km, 4 hours 35 min

  • St.-Paulus-Dom
  • Stadthafen
  • Schlossplatz
  • Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
  • More

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is St. -paulus-dom (münster). This frequently visited church is a picture-perfect place to see in Dortmund. Continue your discovery at Stadthafen, an instagrammable marina with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dortmund, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schlossplatz. This worthwhile public square offers an instagrammable encounter with Dortmund. Next, make your way to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster 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 Dortmund.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Hamburg in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

Exploring the food culture in Hamburg 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Hamburg.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 19 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • St Nikolai Memorial
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • More

Day 5 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!

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Hamburg. Your adventure starts at Hamburg Dungeon, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Miniatur Wunderland. This extraordinary museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St. Nikolai Memorial. This respected monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Hagenbeck Zoo is also worth visiting.

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 Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Miller, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Copa Cabana Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Fontenay Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Hamburg can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum
  • Hamburger Kunsthalle
  • Planten un Blomen
  • Stadtpark
  • Mönckebergstraße
  • More

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!

Don’t miss Mönckebergstraße in Hamburg today, a must-see street 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hamburg, including a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Start your day at Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This photogenic museum is a well-known place to see in Hamburg. Then, wander over to Hamburger Kunsthalle. If photogenic sites excite you, this art gallery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Planten Un Blomen. This eye-catching botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Hamburg offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Stadtpark is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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 Hamburg, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Tower Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Black Forest Bar - By Henn, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 9 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Panoptikum
  • St Michael's Church
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • More

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Hamburg promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at St. Pauli Piers. This romantic pier is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Elbe Tunnel, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Panoptikum, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of St. Michael's Church. This culturally significant church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a top-rated concert hall, and take a stroll around the area.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Hamburg offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brücke 10, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Shiso Burger Hamburg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Hamburg and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Meyer Lansky's, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Chug Club, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hamburg
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 377 km, 4 hours 36 min

  • Borsteler Schweiz
  • Lüneburg Heath
  • Behringer Heide
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Germany will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Germany, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hamburg today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Borsteler Schweiz. This stunning hiking area will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lüneburg Heath Nature Park and learn what makes this mesmerizing nature reserve unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Behringer Heide.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dortmund. 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.

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

Dine in style at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, KLUBHAUS1249 boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out AMI Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dortmund.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Germany. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Germany tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
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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.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Dortmund’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Thier-Galerie Dortmund. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Savor your final moments in Germany at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden before you head out.

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.

Dine in style at Atlantico Café, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, FOOD BROTHER boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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.

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