9-Day Germany Road Trip from Hamburg traveling south to Muenster, Cologne, Brunswick, Berlin, and Hanover

Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Hamburg and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hamburg 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.

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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall or 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 Hamburg. 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 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. Pauli Piers is a great place to start. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,128 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Miniatur Wunderland. The museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 87,297 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Tierpark Hagenbeck. This zoo is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,629 reviews.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Coeur D'Artichaut, renowned for its delectable modern french and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Spitzner, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Muenster.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Atelier provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Spooky's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Duisburg, Brühl, and Erftstadt. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muenster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,756 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Duisburg Zoo. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,129 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Tiger & Turtle. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,699 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Duisburg and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 1 hour 7 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phantasialand. This much-appreciated amusement park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews. Each year, 1,750,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, 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 Cologne's best restaurants.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Toddy Tapper, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Soul Bar Cologne offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg 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 Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brunswick, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Old Market, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Rhine Garden Sculpture. Rhine Garden Sculpture is a fountain with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,663 reviews.

Cologne Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. In a single year, this catholic cathedral hosts approximately 5,000,000 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Brunswick. Brunswick offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Brunswick.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Superleggera Bar & Cafe offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Expertise is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Barnaby's Blues Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brunswick 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 16 min. Upon reaching Potsdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Neues Palais in Potsdam, a remarkable palace where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,067 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Sanssouci Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 32,849 travelers.

Sanssouci is another must-visit attraction. This renowned palace offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,925 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 Brandenburg Gate. This well-loved triumphal arch boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 14,759 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin, 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Berlin by reserving a table at Rutz. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, recognized for its delicious 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 FACIL, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and contemporary cuisine in Berlin. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and contemporary foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the evening going at Green Door Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Sharlie Cheen Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Berlin Icebar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

Kick off the day at East Side Gallery, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 53,795 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Alexanderplatz. Alexanderplatz is a square with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 212,589 reviews.

Topography of Terror is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This military museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,438 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Checkpoint Charlie. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 82,690 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Berlin Wall Memorial, a famous museum in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,977 travelers.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Berlin.

Make sure to reserve a table at Berliner Fernsehturm, 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 BrewDog 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 Gasthaus Krombach, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting booze bar berlin, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Victoria Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Berlin, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Potsdamer Platz, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 60,213 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. This holocaust memorial has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 45,332 travelers.

Brandenburg Gate is another must-visit attraction. This renowned triumphal arch offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 161,792 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 Siegessäule. This well-loved victory column boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 26,275 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Berlin Zoological Garden awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a zoo, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 63,157 previous visitors.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Meteora, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Quarks Bar Hannover offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Guru is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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 - Friedrichseck 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.

After soaking in Hanover’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Friedrichseck. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Friedrichseck, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Heide Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Friedrichseck. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 57,285 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

KRAKE is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 369 reviews.

Bad Fallingbostel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This naturpark is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bad Fallingbostel, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,465 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Hamburg. Hamburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 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.

Dine in style at Brücke 10, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Shiso Burger Hamburg boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Das Feuerschiff LV 13. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tower Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. CIU` DIE BAR is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Meyer Lansky's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Hamburg’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Take home a piece of Germany with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Planten un Blomen. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 21,983 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanoi Deli Rathaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!