Cheap 10-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Cologne, Hanover, and Hamburg and surrounding area

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Bags included
Hotel
Select dates to customize hotels
Car rental
Customizable
Tours & tickets
Customizable
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Kickstart an unforgettable journey with this 10-day cheap road trip in Germany, tailored for travelers on a budget. Explore Dortmund, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Aachen, Brühl, Bonn, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, Solingen, Hanover, Bremerhaven, and Hamburg, where every turn is a new discovery.

Explore Germany for less and on your own terms. This customizable and cheap Germany travel package promises an exhilarating 10-day adventure. We'll introduce you to many famous and affordable vacation spots in the country.

Stay comfortably at a top-rated budget hotel for 3 nights in Dortmund, 3 nights in Cologne, 1 night in Hanover, and 2 nights in Hamburg. Dine with locals at popular restaurants and bars across Germany and get a taste of the people’s hospitality and authentic food. We'll help you have an unforgettable road trip experience in Germany at the lowest price!

On arrival in Dortmund, you'll pick up your rental vehicle. From there, you'll begin your journey to the best and cheapest places to travel to in Germany. Germany offers a wealth of world-class natural and scenic beauty you wouldn't want to miss!

During your cheap holiday in Germany, the choice of accommodation is entirely yours. Enjoy the freedom to select the ideal budget-friendly stay that perfectly matches your needs. Rest assured, your affordable accommodation will provide a welcoming retreat after a day of exploration and discovery.

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 affordable holiday package includes everything you need for a fantastic 10-day vacation in Germany. We'll offer you cheap flights and arrange your hotel reservations for 9 nights. We'll also provide you with the best budget rental car in Germany with CDW insurance.

You can customize your Germany travel plan for a more personalized holiday experience. Choose from popular and competitively-priced tours and tickets in Germany and add your picks to your itinerary. For example, get cheap tour tickets to uncover the stories behind Germany's famous sights. Or, try out some of the most fantastic excursions. There's no better way to add more culture and inspiration to your trip!

Booking this cheap holiday package in Germany offers you many perks. You'll get 24/7 travel support. In addition, you'll have access to a step-by-step guide in our mobile app. Here, you'll find all your travel documents organized in one place.

So what are you waiting for? Enjoy a hassle-free vacation in Germany with this cheap holiday deal! The best and most affordable tours in Germany fill up fast, so book your adventure today!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Westfalenpark
DASA Working World ExhibitionGerman Football MuseumRombergpark Botanical GardenDortmund Zoo
Museum FolkwangUNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooRombergpark Botanical Garden
ElisenbrunnenCarolus ThermenPhantasialandCologne Cathedral
Cologne Chocolate MuseumOld MarketCologne CathedralCologne Zoological Garden
RheinaueSchloss DrachenburgSiebengebirgeCologne Cathedral

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1 – Dortmund - arrival day

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
  • More
  • Westfalenpark
  • More

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dortmund and begin your adventure in Germany.

More than a city in Germany, Dortmund is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Dortmund 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 Westfalenpark or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Dortmund, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Zum Alten Markt - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Ringhotel Drees, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Visit Vater&sohn, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Loka Lounge Dortmund serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Dortmund. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Central Bar & More Dortmund.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Dortmund

  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 24 km, 1 hour 10 min

  • DASA Working World Exhibition
  • German Football Museum
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Dortmund, with 1 night to stay in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dortmund, including a museum, a botanical garden, and a zoo. Start your day at Dasa Working World Exhibition. This eye-catching museum is an up-and-coming place to see in Dortmund. Then, wander over to German Football Museum. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.

Dortmund offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dortmund Zoo is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Dortmund. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

Savor the culinary delights of Dortmund, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Strobels Dortmund, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance.

Gaststätte Lütge-eck offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Dortmund, Essen, Duisburg, and Cologne

  • Dortmund
  • Essen
  • Duisburg
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 146 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • Museum Folkwang
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Essen and Duisburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dortmund and set your GPS to Essen. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Essen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Museum Folkwang, an intriguing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein and admire its picture-perfect features.

After soaking in Essen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Duisburg. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Duisburg, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a locally renowned park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo and admire its visually striking features.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Cologne has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Cologne on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Cologne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Cologne, Aachen, and Brühl

  • Cologne
  • Aachen
  • Eckdorf
  • More

Drive 175 km, 2 hours 45 min

  • Elisenbrunnen
  • Carolus Thermen
  • Phantasialand
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Ready for day 4 of your road trip vacation in Germany? Discover more of Cologne and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

Start your day with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This famous church is a must-visit in the city.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aachen may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Aachen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Elisenbrunnen, a locally appreciated monument known for its photogenic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Carolus Thermen, a curiosity-inducing spa that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Phantasialand and explore the picture-perfect features.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Cologne. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Mongo's Restaurant Köln offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami". Or, try RheinZeit, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Soul Bar Cologne, considered one of the best bars in Cologne. You can also enjoy drinks at Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Cologne.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Germany!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Cologne

  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 8 km, 53 min

  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • More

Day 5 means another chance to make the best memories in Cologne. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Cologne and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Set out on a day brimming with an eye-catching, a romantic, a breathtaking, and a historically significant. Start at the interesting Lindt Chocolate Museum, an instagrammable museum in Cologne. Next, go to Old Market.

After visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum and Old Market, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cologne Zoological Garden. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a unique experience.

Germany is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Germany, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Germany. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Germany that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Cologne offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Limani, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cologne, Suderman.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Cologne, Bonn, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, Solingen, and Hanover

  • Cologne
  • Bonn
  • Königswinter
  • Heisterbacherrott
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 383 km, 4 hours 44 min

  • Rheinaue
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Siebengebirge
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany is another proof that cheap holidays in Germany can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 4 wonderful destinations — Bonn, Königswinter, Heisterbacherrott, and Solingen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Hanover, where you'll be spending 1 night.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bonn. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 32 min. When you arrive in Bonn, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Rheinaue, a popular park that everyone visiting Bonn should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bonn, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Königswinter may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Königswinter, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Schloss Drachenburg, a captivating castle known for its instagrammable features.

Heisterbacherrott’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Königswinter behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Heisterbacherrott welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Siebengebirge is a locally appreciated mountain range we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Hanover. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Hanover, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Germany shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Hanover is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Meteora stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Bar Añejo offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Quarks Bar Hannover, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sternwarte for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Dormero Hotel Hannover is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Germany with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Hanover, Bremerhaven, and Hamburg

  • Hanover
  • Bremerhaven
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 363 km, 4 hours 5 min

  • German Emigration Center
  • Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost
  • Bremerhaven Zoo
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Hamburg, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Hamburg, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Bremerhaven.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Hanover, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bremerhaven. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is German Emigration Center. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Klimahaus Bremerhaven 8 ° Ost. This captivating science center is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Bremerhaven Zoo. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the zoo.

Hamburg offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Germany. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Germany by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Hamburg that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Germany!

Read more
Day 8

Day 8 – Hamburg

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 9 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Elbe Tunnel
  • St Michael's Church
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Germany. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Hamburg and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. St. Pauli Piers is the perfect place to start. This pier is one of the most well-known places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, a popular historical landmark, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to St. Michael's Church. This culturally significant church offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Miniatur Wunderland adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an instagrammable concert hall in Hamburg.

Your discovery of Hamburg does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Hamburg on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Germany.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Hamburg has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of Hamburg through its culinary scene, starting with Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore NOM vietnamese fusion food, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cafe Miller is an excellent example of a great bar in Hamburg offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Copa Cabana Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Hamburg. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Hamburg, Fontenay Bar is for you.

A road trip vacation in Hamburg can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Germany!

Read more
Day 9

Day 9 – Hamburg and Dortmund

  • Hamburg
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 358 km, 4 hours 32 min

  • Planten un Blomen
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • More

On day 9 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Hamburg. You'll stay in Dortmund for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Get ready for a day filled with a romantic, a serene, a breathtaking, and a visually striking in the charming city of Hamburg. Your adventure starts at Planten Un Blomen, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Stadtpark. This popular park is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Hagenbeck Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Jump House Trampolinpark Hamburg-stellingen is also worth visiting.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Dortmund has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Dortmund on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Dortmund, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Café Brasserie Lotte, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? ALEX Dortmund offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund is the perfect spot for you!

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Germany!

Read more
Day 10

Day 10 – Dortmund - departure day

  • Dortmund - Departure day
  • More
  • Burg Hörde
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 10 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dortmund.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Dortmund’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dortmund is the remarkable Hörde. This castle and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 709 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Dortmund, consider a top-rated restaurant like Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. KLUBHAUS1249 is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is AMI Restaurant, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Dortmund.

You’ll then say farewell to Dortmund. 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Germany

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.