9-Day Germany Road Trip from Dortmund to Hanover, Berlin, Hamburg, and Muenster

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Explore the best of Germany on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dortmund, Hanover, Potsdam, Berlin, Hamburg, Muenster, Cologne, and Brühl. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dortmund, 1 night in Hanover, 3 nights in Berlin, 1 night in Hamburg, and 1 night in Muenster. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dortmund, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dortmund, Hanover, Potsdam, Berlin, Hamburg, Muenster, Cologne, and Brühl, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.

Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Dortmund - arrival day

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Welcome to Dortmund, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dortmund's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Dortmund. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zum Alten Markt, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ringhotel Drees. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dortmund this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Vater&sohn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Dortmund, and Hanover

  • Hanover
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • St. Reinold's Church
  • Dortmund U-Tower
  • German Football Museum
  • DASA Working World Exhibition
  • More

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St. Reinoldi, a remarkable church building where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,508 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Dortmund U-tower. This office building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,626 travelers.

German Football Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sports museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,503 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 Dasa Working World Exhibition. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,040 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 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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern, and creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Jante, known for its delicious creative, and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Hanover is Votum, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious creative, and modern menu.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Hanover, Potsdam, and Berlin

  • Berlin
  • Hanover
  • Potsdam
  • More

Drive 312 km, 4 hours 19 min

  • Hanover Zoo
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Sanssouci Park
  • Sanssouci Palace
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover, and Potsdam, 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 Berlin. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Hanover Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 reviews.

Next up is Herrenhausen Gardens. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,178 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hanover and set your GPS to Potsdam. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Potsdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Sanssouci Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,286 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Sanssouci. Sanssouci is a palace with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,145 reviews.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Berlin by securing a table at Rutz. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern, and creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover FACIL, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative, and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative, and contemporary cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Berlin

  • Berlin
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Drive 10 km, 54 min

  • East Side Gallery
  • Alexanderplatz
  • Fernsehturm Berlin
  • Berlin Cathedral
  • Pergamon Museum
  • More

Day 4 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.

Drop by the renowned East Side Gallery. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 54,103 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Alexanderplatz. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 213,494 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Pergamon Museum. This art museum gets around 1,298,000 annual visitors. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 29,292 travelers, this art museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Berlin.

Your discoveries in Berlin do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Berlin on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Berlin TV Tower. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Berlin.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sharlie Cheen Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Berlin Icebar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Curtain Club offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Berlin

  • Berlin
  • More

Drive 11 km, 58 min

  • Checkpoint Charlie
  • Topography of Terror
  • Potsdamer Platz
  • Victory Column
  • Gedenkstätte Berliner Mauer
  • More

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Checkpoint Charlie. This extraordinary sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 83,167 visitors.

Next, make your way to Topography Of Terror. This military museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 36,601 reviews.

While in Berlin, we also recommend a visit to Potsdamer Platz. This square has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 60,557 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Siegessäule. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 travelers, this victory column is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Berlin.

Make your way to Berlin Wall Memorial, perhaps the most famous museum in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,126 reviews.

You can learn more about Berlin today by going on a tour. Berlin offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Make sure to book a table at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Restaurant Marjellchen, 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 Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Berlin tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Booze Bar Berlin, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Victoria Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Berlin, and Hamburg

  • Hamburg
  • Berlin
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Drive 295 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Großer Tiergarten
  • Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Berlin Zoological Garden
  • Charlottenburg Palace
  • More

On day 6 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 Berlin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Großer Tiergarten. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,436 visitors.

Next, make your way to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This top attraction is a holocaust memorial with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 45,507 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Brandenburg Gate. This triumphal arch is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162,714 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Berlin Zoological Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 63,593 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Charlottenburg Palace. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,831 travelers.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative, and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french, and classic cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative, and modern menu.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Hamburg, and Muenster

  • Münster
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 289 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Planten un Blomen
  • More

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 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Miniatur Wunderland. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Elbe Philharmonic Hall is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is St. Pauli Piers. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Elbe Tunnel is another outstanding experience in Hamburg. Around 34,850 travelers have rated this road tunnel an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Planten Un Blomen is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 22,471 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 Muenster. Muenster 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 Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, recognized for its delicious modern french, and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Spitzner, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Atelier offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Muenster. Spooky's 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 Muenster and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Muenster, Cologne, Brühl, and Dortmund

  • Dortmund
  • Cologne
  • Brühl
  • More

Drive 295 km, 4 hours 1 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cologne, and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dortmund, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Muenster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 51 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cologne Cathedral, a remarkable catholic cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 5,000,000 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Old Market. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 travelers.

Lindt Chocolate Museum 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 37,446 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cologne behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Around 1,750,000 people visit this attraction every year.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 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.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Gaststätte Lütge-eck offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Dortmund - departure day

  • Dortmund - Departure day
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  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

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.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Dortmund's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,572 reviews.

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!

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