Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Hamburg traveling south to Dortmund, Cologne, Hanover, and Berlin

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

Hamburg is a popular cheap holiday destination in Germany with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Germany, Hamburg 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a remarkable concert hall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, 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 SuRolls - 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 bona'me, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt is an excellent example of a great bar in Hamburg offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Scandic Hamburg Emporio, 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, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is for you.

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

Day 2 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Miniatur Wunderland, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 89,283 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at St. Michael's Church. This church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,524 travelers.

Hagenbeck Zoo is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,852 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Stadtpark. This well-loved park boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 20,877 reviews.

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.

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

Visit Cafe Miller, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Copa Cabana Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Hamburg. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Fontenay Bar.

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

Day 3 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 2 wonderful destinations — Hamburg, and Behringen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dortmund, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,487 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is St. Pauli Piers. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,508 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,850 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Behringen. This car ride takes around 49 min.

Take the opportunity to see Behringer Heide. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 302 visitors.

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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Dortmund is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Vater&sohn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Central Bar & More Dortmund is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Duisburg, Königswinter, and Brühl. You'll stay in Cologne for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dortmund, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 48 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord one of your first sightseeing stops in Duisburg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,144 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Duisburg Zoo is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,434 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Königswinter, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Duisburg to Königswinter may take around 1 hour 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Königswinter, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Schloss Drachenburg your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this château an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 17,667 reviews.

Brühl’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Königswinter behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Brühl welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Phantasialand one of your first sightseeing stops in Brühl. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This amusement park attracts 1,750,000 visitors every year.

Cologne 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.

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!

Ready for day 5 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 1 night in this vibrant destination!

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Koblenz. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive in Koblenz, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This extraordinary fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 18,566 visitors.

Next, make your way to Deutsches Eck. This top attraction is a headland with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 34,555 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Keldung. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eltz Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,367 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Keldung and set your GPS to Glees. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Glees, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Maria Laach Abbey, a remarkable monastery where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,805 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cologne.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cologne, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" - 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 RheinZeit, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Visit Soul Bar Cologne, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Cologne. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cologne, and Hanover. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Hanover, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lindt Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Next, make your way to Old Market. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,935 reviews.

While in Cologne, we also recommend a visit to Cologne Cathedral. Hosting around 5,000,000 visitors every year, Cologne Cathedral is one of the best places to visit. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews.

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 Hanover. Your travel time is around 3 hours 2 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanover, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 19,178 visitors.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Seña, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sternwarte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

On day 7 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Magdeburg. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Berlin, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Magdeburg, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Hanover to Magdeburg may take around 1 hour 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Magdeburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Gedenkstätte Für Die Opfer Politischer Gewalt. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 193 visitors.

Next, make your way to Magdeburg Vertical-lift Bridge. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,474 reviews.

While in Magdeburg, we also recommend a visit to Elbtreppen Magdeburg. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 859 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cathedral Of Magdeburg. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,136 travelers, this cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Magdeburg.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Berlin should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Berlin, try some of our top recommendations.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Monkey Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Saint Jean is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Green Door Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 8 means another chance to make the best memories in Berlin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Berlin and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you're ready to see some sights, Pergamon Museum is a great place to start. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 29,292 visitors. Pergamon Museum attracts more than 1,298,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Berlin Cathedral. This lutheran cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,615 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Brandenburg Gate. The triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 162,714 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This holocaust memorial is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 45,507 reviews.

Potsdamer Platz is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this square, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 60,557 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Touring the best attractions in Germany offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Germany you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Germany. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Germany.

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

Discover the heart of Berlin through its culinary scene, starting with Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz. 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 Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Berlin TV Tower, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Sharlie Cheen Bar is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at The Curtain Club, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Berlin, 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 Berlin, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Berlin Wall Memorial. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 41,126 reviews.

Next up is Alexanderplatz. This square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 213,494 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Fernsehturm Berlin. This television tower has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

East Side Gallery is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 54,103 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Treptower Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,355 reviews.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

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 Berlin that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

BrewDog Berlin Mitte offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Restaurant Marjellchen. Or, try Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Booze Bar Berlin, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Victoria Bar, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Germany. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Germany!

On day 10 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Berlin and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Berlin — 1 night.

Kick off the day at German Museum Of Technology, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 22,609 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Topography Of Terror. Topography Of Terror is a military museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 36,601 reviews.

Checkpoint Charlie is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 83,167 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Großer Tiergarten. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 23,436 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Siegessäule, a famous victory column in Berlin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,706 travelers.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Berlin, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Berlin and the culture of past or present-day Germany.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Curry 61, 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 Gasthaus Krombach - 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 SOY, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Franken Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Mikkeller Berlin is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Limonadier Cocktailbar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 11 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Hamburg, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Hamburg, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Berlin, and Potsdam.

Make Berlin Zoological Garden your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 63,593 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Charlottenburg Palace. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 25,831 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this château every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Berlin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Potsdam may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Potsdam, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Sanssouci is a great place to start. This palace is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,145 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Sanssouci Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 33,286 travelers.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Edelcurry, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Deichgraf Restaurant.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tower Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Hamburg!

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Hamburg.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Hamburg’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Hamburg is the remarkable Planten Un Blomen. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 22,471 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Hamburg, consider a top-rated restaurant like Brücke 10, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Shiso Burger Hamburg is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Hamburg.

You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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!