9-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Dortmund, Cologne, Bremen, and Hamburg

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Laatzen. 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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 visitors.

When you’re finished at Markthalle Hannover, head to Hanover Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,570 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,767 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,866 visitors.

Upon reaching Laatzen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Hanover Fairground, a remarkable performing arts center where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,899 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Experience the culinary magic of Strobels Dortmund, a hidden gem nestled in Dortmund. 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 Vater&Sohn, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to CENTRAL Bar & More Dortmund. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Gaststätte Lütge-Eck, another top-rated place in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night 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 4 vibrant destinations - Sterkrade, Bonn, Königswinter, and Brühl. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dortmund, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sterkrade may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Sterkrade, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gasometer Oberhausen, a remarkable gas holder where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bonn. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Rheinaue, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,226 reviews.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Toddy Tapper. Alternatively, go to Soul Bar Cologne, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,199 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, head to Deutsches Eck. This one-of-a-kind headland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 33,856 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Koblenz, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Nürburg. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Nürburgring. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 35,289 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Cologne, 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 Bangkok Thai Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Servus Colonia Alpina, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Little Link. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!

On day 5 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 and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Old Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 reviews. Usually, around 5,000,000 people visit Cologne Cathedral every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,118 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 57 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,756 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Bremen. Bremen 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bremen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paulaner's a der Schlachte. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Red Rock after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to wohnzimmer Bremen, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Eisen also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Bremerhaven. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Bremerhaven’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bremen behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Bremerhaven welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned German Emigration Center. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,705 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Bremerhaven Zoo. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 15,389 visitors, this zoo deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. This museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,574 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Alter Hafen. This harbor museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 241 local and international 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.

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative and international menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Haerlin, known for its delicious creative french and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Hamburg is 100/200 Kitchen, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious creative and modern menu.

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, Copa Cabana Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 7 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Elbe Philharmonic Hall your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this concert hall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,649 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Miniatur Wunderland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 87,297 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

St. Michael's Church is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,173 visitors.

When you’re finished at St. Michael's Church, the perfect next stop is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,570 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This sightseeing destination is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,128 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Hamburg, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Hamburg below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brücke 10, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Shiso Burger Hamburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Das Feuerschiff LV 13. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Tower Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, CIU` DIE BAR offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Meyer Lansky's. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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