Cheap 9-Day Germany Road Trip from Muenster to Essen, Cologne, Hanover, and Hamburg and surrounding area

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

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

Make Kiepenkerl-denkmal one of your first sightseeing stops in Muenster. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 390 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Restaurant Ackermann, 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 Gasthaus & Gaststätte Stuhlmacher - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Le Feu - Der Flammkuchen in Münster promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt is an excellent example of a great bar in Muenster offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Atelier, another of locals’ go-to bars in Muenster. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Muenster, Spooky's 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 across Germany is another proof that cheap holidays in Germany can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Nordkirchen, Feldhausen, and Bottrop. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Essen, where you'll be spending 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Muenster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Nordkirchen may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Nordkirchen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Schloss Nordkirchen one of your first sightseeing stops in Nordkirchen. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,745 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Make Movie Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Feldhausen. Rated an average of 4 out of 5 stars by 51,299 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Set your GPS to Bottrop and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bottrop beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tetrahedron In Bottrop. This much-appreciated sculpture is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,750 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Mr. Nam 68, 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.

Continue your lively evening at Südrock Rock Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gentlem is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Diamond Cocktail Lounge ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 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 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Germany, including Essen, Brühl, and Königswinter.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Essen, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,243 visitors.

Shaft Xii is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,333 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Stadtgarten. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,759 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brühl, 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 Essen to Brühl may take around 1 hour 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brühl, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phantasialand. This amusement park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Brühl, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 91,824 visitors. Around 1,750,000 people visit this attraction every year.

Königswinter’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brühl behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Königswinter welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Schloss Drachenburg. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 17,667 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.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Germany, you’ll tour 1 destination: Cologne. You'll stay in Hanover for 2 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors. Each year, around 5,000,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Rheinpark. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,479 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Cologne.

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.

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

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.

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

Day 5’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hanover, proving that cheap holidays in Germany can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Hanover. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hanover Zoo. This extraordinary zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 27,161 visitors.

Next, make your way to Sea Life Hannover. This top attraction is an aquarium with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars by 8,630 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Berggarten. This botanical garden is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,252 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Herrenhausen Gardens. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,178 travelers.

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

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

Start your foodie adventure at Dublin Inn, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Finca Hannover Finca & Bar Celona Hannover Marienwerder, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Germany, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Hanover, Friedrichseck, and Bad Fallingbostel. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Hamburg, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Make Markthalle Hannover your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 9,074 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hanover and set your GPS to Friedrichseck. 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 1 hour 14 min. Upon reaching Friedrichseck, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Heide Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 57,821 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Friedrichseck and set your GPS to Bad Fallingbostel. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching Bad Fallingbostel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This extraordinary naturpark has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,513 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 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, 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 79,037 reviews.

Continue your journey at Miniatur Wunderland. This museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 89,283 travelers from near and far.

Hamburg is also the home of Hamburg Dungeon. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,768 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Planten Un Blomen. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 22,471 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Stadtpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,877 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

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.

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.

Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg 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, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at NOM vietnamese fusion food, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cafe Miller offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Hamburg, check out Copa Cabana Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at 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 8 of your road trip across Germany offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Hamburg. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Muenster, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Drop by the renowned St. Michael's Church. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,524 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Elbe Tunnel. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 34,850 visitors, this road tunnel deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to St. Pauli Piers. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,508 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Hagenbeck Zoo. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,852 local and international travelers.

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.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Eulen & Lerchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The James offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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 Muenster.

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

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Muenster is the remarkable Schlossplatz. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,366 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Muenster, consider a top-rated restaurant like Altes Gasthaus Leve, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Kleiner Kiepenkerl is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Rossini, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Muenster.

You’ll then say farewell to Muenster. 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!