9-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Essen, Cologne, Hanover, and Hamburg and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Bottrop. In the evening, you’ll end up in Essen, where you will stay 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 Nordkirchen may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nordkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Schloss Nordkirchen, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable palace has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,745 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nordkirchen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Feldhausen may take around 55 min. Upon your arrival in Feldhausen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Movie Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 51,299 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Essen, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Essen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Hannappel in Essen by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Hannappel delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern, and classic cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Schote, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gentlem, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Diamond Cocktail Lounge likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Essen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen, Brühl, and Königswinter, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,243 reviews.

Continue your journey at Shaft Xii. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,333 travelers from near and far.

Essen is also the home of Stadtgarten. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,759 visitors.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brühl. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive in Brühl, it's time to take a break from the road.

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 91,824 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Make Cologne Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews. More than 5,000,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Old Market. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,935 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 37,446 visitors.

When you’re finished at Lindt Chocolate Museum, the perfect next stop is Rheinpark. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,479 reviews.

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 Hanover. Hanover 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 Hanover. 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 Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern, and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Jante, renowned for its delicious creative, and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Votum, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative, and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Seña offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sternwarte is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hanover. You’ll stay in Hanover for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 27,161 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Sea Life Hannover. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 8,630 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Berggarten. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,252 visitors.

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.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Dublin Inn, 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 Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder, 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 Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Continue your journey at Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of Hamburg Dungeon. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Planten Un Blomen. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.