Cheap 12-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Hamburg, Bremen, Cologne, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, and Frankfurt

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Hanover, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Hanover and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Masch Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,348 visitors.

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

Meteora offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Quarks Bar Hannover. Or, try Guru, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Visit Bar Seña, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Sternwarte serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Hanover.

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

Day 2 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 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Hanover, Laatzen, and Altwarmbüchen.

Make Markthalle Hannover one of your first sightseeing stops in Hanover. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Herrenhausen Gardens is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,866 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Hanover Zoo. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,767 visitors.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hanover Fairground. Previous visitors have rated this performing arts center an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 6,899 reviews.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Altwarmbüchener See. This lake is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,068 reviews.

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.

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, Hamburg 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.

Start your foodie adventure at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to NOM vietnamese fusion food, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. Alternatively, go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Copa Cabana Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 3 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg 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 Hamburg — 1 night.

Make St. Michael's Church one of your first sightseeing stops in Hamburg. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,173 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Planten un Blomen is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 21,983 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Tierpark Hagenbeck. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,629 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Stadtpark. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 20,534 previous visitors.

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.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at Brücke 10, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Shiso Burger Hamburg, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Das Feuerschiff LV 13, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Tower Bar is an excellent example of a great bar in Hamburg offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at CIU` DIE 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, Meyer Lansky's is for you.

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

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hamburg Dungeon. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,598 reviews.

Miniatur Wunderland is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 87,297 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 77,649 reviews.

St. Pauli Piers is another outstanding experience in Hamburg. Around 18,128 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Elbe Tunnel is not far away. This road tunnel is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,570 reviews.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Bremen, 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 Bremen through its culinary scene, starting with Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp. 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 Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Paulaner's a der Schlachte, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Red Rock, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of wohnzimmer Bremen, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Eisen likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Gelsenkirchen and Sterkrade. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Cologne, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

After soaking in Bremen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gelsenkirchen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 45 min. When you arrive in Gelsenkirchen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Nordstern Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,324 visitors.

After soaking in Gelsenkirchen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sterkrade. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Sterkrade, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is SEA LIFE Oberhausen. This aquarium is rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars in 12,643 reviews.

Continue your journey at Gasometer Oberhausen. This gas holder is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,121 travelers from near and far.

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

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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Limani is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

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

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Germany, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for another 2 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Germany, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

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 Essen may take around 1 hour 10 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,866 visitors.

Set your GPS to Duisburg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Duisburg beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,756 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Duisburg Zoo is a recommended place to visit. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 21,129 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Duisburg is Tiger & Turtle. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,699 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Duisburg offers an experience you will remember.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Cologne 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 Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina - 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 Little Link, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Cologne, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cologne Zoological Garden. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

Cologne Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 69,905 reviews. The attraction welcomes 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cologne Chocolate Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews.

The attraction gets an estimated 5,000,000 visitors every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Brühl. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Brühl, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Phantasialand. Over 1,750,000 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 89,377 reviews.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Jameson Pub Cologne, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Barney Vallely's is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Gruber's, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Day 8 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 — Koblenz and Speyer. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Heidelberg, where you'll be spending 1 night.

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 Koblenz may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Koblenz, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This fortress is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,199 visitors.

Deutsches Eck is another popular attraction you could visit today. This headland has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 33,856 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Speyer. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Technic Museum Speyer one of your first sightseeing stops in Speyer. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 23,991 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Heidelberg 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.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Cafe Extrablatt Heidelberg.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Sonder Bar (Pinte), where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Destille offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Heidelberg. Orange Cafe Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Heidelberg!

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,439 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,389 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,651 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Heidelberg Palace. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,117 visitors.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Stuttgart has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Stuttgart on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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 Stuttgart that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Café Le Théâtre, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Wirtshaus Garbe, 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 Kaffeerösterei Café Moulu, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le petit Coq, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Jigger & Spoon offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Frankfurt, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Frankfurt, you'll explore 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Stuttgart and Sinsheim.

Take the opportunity to see Schloßplatz. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 41,355 visitors.

Mercedes-Benz Museum is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This automobile museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 42,800 travelers. Up to 876,109 people visit Mercedes-Benz Museum every year.

Stuttgart is also the home of Porsche Museum. Around 27,816 people have rated this automobile museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to Sinsheim and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sinsheim beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Technikmuseum Sinsheim. This technology museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 28,645 visitors.

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

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Im Herzen Afrikas, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Apfelwein Dax offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Ariston Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gleis 25 is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 11 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Frankfurt and Kassel. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Hanover, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Römerberg. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,391 visitors.

Iron Footbridge is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,044 visitors.

Palmengarten is also highly recommended by travelers. This botanical garden has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,050 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Frankfurt, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kassel. Your travel time is around 2 hours 5 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Karlsaue. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,131 reviews.

Hanover 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Hanover, 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.

Dublin Inn 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, Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

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 Hanover.

As you approach the end of your journey in Germany, take a moment for some retail therapy in Hanover’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Germany, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Germany with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Hanover is the remarkable Opernplatz. This square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 605 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Hanover, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Masa Restaurant, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße is a highly recommended spot.

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!