Cheap 9-Day Germany Road Trip from Cologne traveling north to Hanover and Hamburg

Your exciting road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night. 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.

Kick off the day at Old Market, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,740 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 Cologne offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Germany.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Mongo's Restaurant Köln, 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 Limani - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Toddy Tapper and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Soul Bar Cologne 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 Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1: Cologne. You'll stay in Hanover for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Hanover. 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 3 hours 5 min. Upon reaching Hanover, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 69,905 visitors. Around 5,000,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Cologne Chocolate Museum is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 30,118 reviews.

While exploring Germany is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Hanover has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Hanover on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay 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, 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, Quarks Bar Hannover offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Guru, 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.

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

Day 3 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 Hanover! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hanover and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Herrenhausen Gardens. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,866 reviews.

Next up is SEA LIFE Hannover. This aquarium has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 8,476 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Berggarten. This botanical garden has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,252 reviews.

Masch Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,348 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.

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

Discover the heart of Hanover through its culinary scene, starting with Dublin Inn. 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 Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

Day 4 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 1 wonderful destinations — Hanover. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Hamburg, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Hamburg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hanover behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min. Hamburg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Market Church. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,619 visitors.

When you’re finished at Market Church, head to Markthalle Hannover. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,944 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Hanover Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 26,767 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Eilenriede. This urban forest is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,347 visitors.

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

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.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Copa Cabana Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, 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 Hamburg, with 3 nights to stay in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Townhall. This city hall is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,211 reviews.

Continue your journey at St. Nikolai Memorial. This church is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,105 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of Miniatur Wunderland. This museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 87,297 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Hamburg Dungeon. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,598 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Elbe Philharmonic Hall. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 77,649 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this concert hall.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Brücke 10, 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 Shiso Burger Hamburg - 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 Das Feuerschiff LV 13, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Hamburg, Tower Bar. Alternatively, visit CIU` DIE BAR, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Meyer Lansky's, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Germany! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an 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 — 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,128 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Elbe Tunnel. This road tunnel has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Panoptikum. This museum has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 10,933 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit St. Michael's Church. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,173 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Planten un Blomen. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 21,983 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Hamburg. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Hamburg offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Germany worth remembering for a lifetime.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at Heimathafen, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Hanoi Deli Rathaus, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Chug Club, considered one of the best bars in Hamburg. You can also enjoy drinks at Le Lion • Bar de Paris, known for its fun atmosphere.

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 7 means another chance to make the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,241 visitors.

Hamburger Kunsthalle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,724 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Tierpark Hagenbeck. Visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 37,629 reviews.

Stadtpark is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a park rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,534 reviews.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Germany sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Germany. Germany has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Germany that will fill you with new inspiration.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Hamburg, 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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to estancia steaks, 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 Brooklyn Burger Bar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, ALEX Hamburg promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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 of your self-drive vacation in Germany will take you to the city of Cologne, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Cologne, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Duisburg.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Hamburg, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 3 hours 54 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 26,756 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Duisburg Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 21,129 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Tiger & Turtle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,699 visitors.

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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Bangkok Thai Restaurant, 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 Servus Colonia Alpina - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Little Link promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Cologne’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Germany. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Germany forever.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Cologne, consider a top-rated restaurant like Jameson Pub Cologne, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Barney Vallely's is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Gruber's, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Cologne.

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!