9-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund traveling north to Essen, Bremen, Hamburg, and Hanover

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Dortmund and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dortmund. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dortmund. 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 Meeting, die Café-Bar, 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 Zum Alten Markt, 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 Ringhotel Drees, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!

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 Dortmund. 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 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to German Football Museum. This extraordinary sports museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dortmund Zoo. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 15,732 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Lwl Industrial Museum Zollern. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,363 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Casino Hohensyburg. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,302 travelers.

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

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gentlem is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Essen, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Duisburg, and Essen. You still have 1 night left in Essen.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,211 reviews.

Continue your journey at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 travelers from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Essen to Duisburg may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

Continue your journey at Duisburg Zoo. This zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,434 travelers from near and far.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Essen. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mezzo Mezzo am Zollverein, a top-rated dining spot in Essen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Banana Leaf, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Artemis. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Essen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Metropol Café-bar Essen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Temple Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Zum Pümpchen, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 4 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 Reken, Rheine, and Osnabrück. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Reken. This car ride takes around 40 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wildpark Frankenhof. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,311 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Reken, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rheine. Your travel time is around 56 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Naturzoo Rheine. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,708 visitors.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a highly-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rosso Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Red Rock is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bremen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bremen. This much-appreciated college town is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,746 reviews.

Next up is Bremen Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,226 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Town Musicians Of Bremen. This literary work has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,109 reviews.

Schnoor is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This street has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,546 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Rhododendron-park Bremen. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 6,244 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hamburg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at St. Pauli Piers, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Elbe Tunnel. Elbe Tunnel is a road tunnel with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 reviews.

Planten Un Blomen is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,852 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Stadtpark, a famous park in Hamburg. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,877 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is NOM vietnamese fusion food. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hamburg tonight.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hamburg, and Bad Fallingbostel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Michael's Church. This church is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

Hamburg Dungeon is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Elbe Philharmonic Hall is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a concert hall rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Bad Fallingbostel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hamburg behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Bad Fallingbostel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This naturpark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,513 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 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern, and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative, and modern 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 Votum, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative, and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Dive into day 8 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Markthalle Hannover your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Hanover Zoo. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year.

Sea Life Hannover is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 8,630 visitors.

When you’re finished at Sea Life Hannover, the perfect next stop is Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,178 reviews.

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 Dortmund. Dortmund 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.

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dortmund before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,572 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dortmund.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Germany!