9-Day Germany Road Trip from Hamburg to Berlin, Dresden, and Magdeburg
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Description
Explore the best of Germany on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hamburg, Potsdam, Berlin, Dresden, Magdeburg, and Hanover. 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 3 nights in Hamburg, 3 nights in Berlin, 1 night in Dresden, and 1 night in Magdeburg. 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 Hamburg, 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 Hamburg, Potsdam, Berlin, Dresden, Magdeburg, and Hanover, 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 – Hamburg - arrival day
- Hamburg - Arrival day
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- Chilehaus
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Welcome to Hamburg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Hamburg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Hamburg 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 Chilehaus 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 Hamburg. 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 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.
Savor the flavors at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, SuRolls beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider bona'me. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Hamburg
- Hamburg
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Alter Elbtunnel
- Planten un Blomen
- Tierpark Hagenbeck
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Day 2 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.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,508 visitors.
Elbe Tunnel is another popular attraction you could visit today. This road tunnel has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 visitors.
Planten Un Blomen is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 visitors.
Hagenbeck Zoo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,852 reviews.
Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Stadtpark. This park has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 travelers.
One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Hamburg has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Hamburg offers and add your favorites to your Germany 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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Miller, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Copa Cabana Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fontenay Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 3 – Hamburg, Potsdam, and Berlin
- Berlin
- Hamburg
- Potsdam
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Drive 322 km, 4 hours 15 min
- Elbphilharmonie Hamburg
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Sanssouci Palace
- Sanssouci Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 79,037 visitors.
Miniatur Wunderland is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 89,283 visitors.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hamburg 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 58 min. Upon reaching Potsdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Sanssouci. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 visitors.
When you’re finished at Sanssouci, head to Sanssouci Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 33,286 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Rutz in Berlin by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Rutz delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, acclaimed for its delectable 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 FACIL, 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 contemporary cuisine in the city.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Monkey Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Saint Jean for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Green Door Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Berlin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Charlottenburg Palace
- Potsdamer Platz
- Topography of Terror
- Checkpoint Charlie
- Berlin Wall Memorial
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Charlottenburg Palace. This château is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 25,831 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Potsdamer Platz. This square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 60,557 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Topography Of Terror. This military museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,601 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Checkpoint Charlie. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 83,167 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Berlin Wall Memorial. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,126 visitors.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berlin TV Tower, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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!
Day 5 – Berlin
- Berlin
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Drive 10 km, 55 min
- Pergamonmuseum
- Berlin Cathedral
- Berlin TV Tower
- Alexanderplatz
- East Side Gallery
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Make Pergamon Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 29,292 reviews. More than 1,298,000 people visit this place of interest every year.
Next up, make a stop at Berlin Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,615 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this lutheran cathedral every year.
Fernsehturm Berlin is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This television tower has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 44,005 visitors.
When you’re finished at Fernsehturm Berlin, the perfect next stop is Alexanderplatz. This square is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 213,494 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to East Side Gallery. This art museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 reviews.
If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Berlin on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Marjellchen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Berlin.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Booze Bar Berlin, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Victoria Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
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.
Day 6 – Berlin, and Dresden
- Dresden
- Berlin
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Drive 201 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- Brandenburg Gate
- Tiergarten
- Victory Column
- Berlin Zoological Garden
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Berlin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dresden, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This extraordinary holocaust memorial is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 45,507 visitors.
Next, make your way to Brandenburg Gate. This top attraction is a triumphal arch with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162,714 visitors.
We also recommend a visit to Großer Tiergarten. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,436 travelers.
If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Siegessäule. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,706 travelers.
Today is also your chance to spend some time at Berlin Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 63,593 travelers.
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 Dresden. Dresden 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dresden. 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.
Discover the culinary delights of Dresden by securing a reservation at ElbUferei. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean, and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Genuss-Atelier, renowned for its delicious modern, and creative dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Elements, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern, and international menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hebeda's stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Blondes is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Dresden and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 7 – Dresden, and Magdeburg
- Magdeburg
- Dresden
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Frauenkirche Dresden
- Brühl's Terrace
- Zwinger
- Semperoper Dresden
- Golden Rider
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dresden. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Magdeburg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Church Of Our Lady. This church building is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 30,472 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Brühl's Terrace. This tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,903 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Zwinger. This palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 49,853 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Semperoper. This opera house is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 13,959 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Golden Rider. This monument is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,238 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Magdeburg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As you explore more of Magdeburg, 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 wonderful meal at M2 Cafe & Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Magdeburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Magado, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Perla Magdeburg. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Magdeburg.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Lion - City Pub Gmbh, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Musikkneipe Flowerpower offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Stern Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 8 – Magdeburg, Hanover, Bad Fallingbostel, and Hamburg
- Hamburg
- Hanover
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Drive 330 km, 4 hours 24 min
- Erlebnis-Zoo Hannover
- Markthalle
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
- Lüneburg Heath
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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 - Hanover, and Bad Fallingbostel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Hanover’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Magdeburg behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. Hanover welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.
When you’re finished at Hanover Zoo, head to Markthalle Hannover. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bad Fallingbostel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This much-appreciated naturpark is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,513 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hamburg's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Edelcurry, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Deichgraf Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Tower Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Black Forest Bar - By Henn. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Ciu` Die Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 9 – Hamburg - departure day
- Hamburg - Departure day
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- Townhall
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Day 9 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hamburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hamburg’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Hamburg Townhall, a remarkable city hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,325 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hamburg.
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.
You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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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