Cheap 9-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling east to Hanover, Hamburg, and Muenster

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

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Old Market. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 reviews.

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

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.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Cologne, Toddy Tapper. Alternatively, visit Soul Bar Cologne, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 2 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Chocolate Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 36,704 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cologne Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Cologne Cathedral welcomes 5,000,000 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Rheinpark. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,361 travelers.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Cologne, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Cologne and the culture of past or present-day 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. Cologne has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Bangkok Thai Restaurant, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Servus Colonia Alpina is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Little Link, 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!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Sterkrade and Gelsenkirchen. 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.

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 Sterkrade may take around 1 hour 2 min. Upon your arrival in Sterkrade, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Gasometer Oberhausen your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this gas holder an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,121 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at SEA LIFE Oberhausen. With an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 12,643 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this aquarium every year.

Set your GPS to Gelsenkirchen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Gelsenkirchen beckons with new experiences!

Make Nordstern Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Gelsenkirchen. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 6,324 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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 any of the following affordable places to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Hanover, 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.

Discover the heart of Hanover through its culinary scene, starting with Meteora. 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 Quarks Bar Hannover, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Guru, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Seña, known for its lively atmosphere. Sternwarte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanover, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 visitors.

Herrenhausen Gardens is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,866 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking in Hanover’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Friedrichseck. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Friedrichseck, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Heide Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 57,285 reviews.

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

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is NOM vietnamese fusion food, 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 Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Copa Cabana Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Day 5 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! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Journey into the unknown at St. Michael's Church, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,173 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Planten un Blomen is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 21,983 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Hamburg is Tierpark Hagenbeck. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 37,629 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Hamburg offers an experience you will remember.

Stadtpark is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Hamburg. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,534 reviews.

Make your vacation in Germany more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Germany and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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

Discover the heart of Hamburg through its culinary scene, starting with Brücke 10. 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 Shiso Burger Hamburg, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Das Feuerschiff LV 13, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Tower Bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, CIU` DIE BAR is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit Meyer Lansky's, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

On day 6 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, St. Pauli Piers is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 18,128 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Hamburg Dungeon. The museum has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,598 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 87,297 reviews.

St. Nikolai Memorial is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this church, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,105 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Germany. To have the best affordable travel experience in Germany, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Germany unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Germany.

Savor the culinary delights of Hamburg, 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 Heimathafen, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Hanoi Deli Rathaus - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

The Chug Club is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Le Lion • Bar de Paris is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day.

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

Day 7 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 Hanstedt. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Muenster, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,241 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Townhall. This city hall has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,211 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. The concert hall has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 77,649 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hanstedt. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lüneburg Heath Wildlife Park. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanstedt, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,534 visitors.

Muenster 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.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at Restaurant Ackermann, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster is the perfect spot for you!

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Atelier offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Spooky's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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!

Day 8 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 1 night.

After soaking in Muenster’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Essen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive in Essen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,866 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Duisburg. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 26,756 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Duisburg Inner Harbour. This inland port has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,467 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Duisburg Zoo. The zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 21,129 visitors.

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.

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.

Jameson Pub Cologne 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, Barney Vallely's offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Gruber's, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Germany is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cologne.

As you approach the end of your journey in Germany, take a moment for some retail therapy in Cologne’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 Cologne is the remarkable Deutz Suspension Bridge. This suspension bridge and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 788 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Cologne, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Peters Brauhaus, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Gaststätte Lommerzheim features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Craftbeer Corner Coeln is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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!