9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, and Dresden
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Hanover, Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, and Leipzig.
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 Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, 3 nights in Berlin, and 1 night in Dresden. 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 Hanover, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland, learn more about the unique Elbe Philharmonic Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin Zoological Garden.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, and Leipzig, 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
- Hanover - Arrival day
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- Opernplatz
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Hanover and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hanover 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.
Hanover 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 Opernplatz, or just 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 Hanover. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Meteora, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bar Añejo offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Quarks Bar Hannover. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice 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. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hanover
- Hamburg
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Speicherstadt
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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 Hamburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hanover, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an extraordinary concert hall in the city. Then, head to Miniatur Wunderland and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Hanover, and when you are ready for more, go to Speicherstadt. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular UNESCO world heritage-listed spots of interest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gastwerk Hotel 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 SuRolls, 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 bona'me, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Hamburg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 3
- Hamburg
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Drive 22 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Alsterfontaine
- St Michael's Church
- Elbe Tunnel
- St. Pauli Piers
- Planten un Blomen
- Tierpark Hagenbeck
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Day 3 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Alsterfontaine. This intriguing art installation provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover St. Michael's Church, a breathtaking church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Tunnel, a notable historical landmark. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular St. Pauli Piers. Not far away from the pier, you will find the breathtaking Hagenbeck Zoo, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Planten Un Blomen, another gem in Hamburg with peaceful features to discover.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Miller. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Copa Cabana Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!
Day 4
- Hamburg
- Berlin
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Drive 301 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Charlottenburg Palace
- Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche
- Mauerpark
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On day 4 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 Berlin, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Charlottenburg Palace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting palace before continuing your journey. Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche is your next stop. This captivating church is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.
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 Mauerpark. This picture-perfect park is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berlin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at NENI Berlin, a popular restaurant in Berlin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Berlin at Alt-Berliner Wirtshaus, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hotel Steglitz International. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Berlin tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Monkey Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Saint Jean is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Green Door Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.
Day 5
- Berlin
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Drive 7 km, 48 min
- Brandenburg Gate
- Pergamon Museum
- Neues Museum
- Berlin Cathedral
- Alexanderplatz
- Mitte
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Mitte is a fantastic place you can explore today in Berlin. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Berlin-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Berlin, including a monument, a museum, a church, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Brandenburg Gate. This iconic monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Pergamon Museum, which may be one of the most standout places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Berlin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Neues Museum, a popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Berlin Cathedral and Alexanderplatz.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Berlin's best restaurants.
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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Sharlie Cheen Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Berlin Icebar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Curtain Club, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 6
- Berlin
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Berlin Zoological Garden
- Reichstag
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- Topography of Terror
- East Side Gallery
- Kreuzberg
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Day 6 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 1 night left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Set aside time today to explore Kreuzberg, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.
Immerse yourself in Berlin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Berlin Zoological Garden. This picture-perfect zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Reichstag Building, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, a captivating monument. For a change of scene, check out Topography Of Terror, known for its heritage-rich features. We also recommend visiting East Side Gallery. This street art is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Marjellchen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Berlin tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Booze Bar Berlin after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Victoria Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Head back to your accommodation in Berlin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 7
- Berlin
- Dresden
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Drive 199 km, 2 hours 51 min
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- Zwinger
- Brühl's Terrace
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dresden, 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 Dresden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is The Grand Garden Of Dresden. This captivating park is a noteworthy place to see in Berlin. Continue your discovery at Zwinger, an enchanting palace with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Berlin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Brühl's Terrace. This well-known public square offers a romantic encounter with Berlin. Next, make your way to Church Of Our Lady to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Berlin.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dresden, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Dresden, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Dresden. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Luisenhof, Dresden, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bakery Wippler GmbH. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dresden this evening.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!
Day 8
- Dresden
- Hanover
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Drive 395 km, 4 hours 29 min
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- Neues Bach-Denkmal
- St. Thomas Church
- Marktplatz Leipzig
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Leipzig. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Dresden covers several incredible sights, including a wildlife reserve, a museum, a monument, a church, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Wildpark Leipzig. This underrated wildlife reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Bach-museum Leipzig, a must-see museum in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Neues Bach-denkmal. This intriguing monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St. Thomas Church, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Marktplatz Leipzig. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Guru, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dublin Inn boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Altstadt-treff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to My Way Cocktailbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 9
- Hanover - Departure day
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- Schillerdenkmal
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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 Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Hanover’s shopping center, the lively Kropcke. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.
You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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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