9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Hamburg and Cologne

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Hanover. You’ll stay in Hanover for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A visit to Kramerstraße is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Make time for Hanover Zoo, an interesting zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Masch Park, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Markthalle Hannover. This food market is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hanover at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Herrenhausen Gardens.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Savor the flavors at Guru, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dublin Inn beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hanover tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Altstadt-treff stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, My Way Cocktailbar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg, where will spend 3 nights.

After soaking in Hanover’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Hamburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 54 min. When you arrive in Hamburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Hamburg is Planten Un Blomen, a popular botanical garden that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to St. Nikolai Memorial, a breathtaking monument that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Chilehaus, an underrated historical landmark that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Speicherstadt, a historic historical landmark and the perfect final attraction in Hamburg.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider SuRolls, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at bona'me. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights.

No visit to Hamburg is complete without St. Pauli Piers. This captivating pier is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Elbe Tunnel, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St. Michael's Church. This well-known church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hamburg Dungeon, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Miniatur Wunderland is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Elbe Philharmonic Hall and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most widely recognized attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, 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 Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Cafe Miller, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Copa Cabana Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Fontenay Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hamburg, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Bremen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bremen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Hamburg to Bremen may take around 1 hour 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bremen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Bremen Cathedral is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Bremen Town Hall (ensemble), a historic city hall that’s well-regarded in the area.

While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Bremen Roland, a historic and truly unique monument. End your sightseeing at Bremen, a worthwhile public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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 Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Edelcurry, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Deichgraf Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tower Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Black Forest Bar - By Henn, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Ciu` Die Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Germany.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Cologne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hamburg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 38 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, Köln - Edmund Renard, a frequently visited sculpture garden known for its heritage-rich features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Cologne Cathedral, an impressive church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Museum Ludwig and uncover the details of this historic museum. Make sure to also explore Rhine Garden Sculpture, a beloved park. For your last stop, consider Old Market, a visually striking public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

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.

Cologne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Cologne.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Grid Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Toddy Tapper, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Day 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Schildergasse, a popular street in Cologne. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Let Cologne Zoological Garden set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect zoo before continuing your journey. Media Park Köln Mbh is your next stop. This frequently visited cultural center is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lindt Chocolate Museum. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rheinboulevard.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Germany, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Goslar are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Goslar. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is World Heritage Rammelsberg Ore Mines. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Imperial Palace Of Goslar. This locally appreciated palace is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Market Square. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the public square. Next, take your journey to Das Breite Tor, an intriguing monument.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Hanover. Hanover offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go 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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Masa Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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