6-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen to Cologne and Hamburg and surrounding area
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Explore the best of Germany on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bremen, Duisburg, Cologne, Essen, and Hamburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Germany takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Bremen, 1 night in Cologne, and 1 night in Hamburg. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Germany. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bremen, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Germany on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Germany. Miniatur Wunderland and Elbe Philharmonic Hall are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bremen, Duisburg, Cologne, Essen, and Hamburg, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Germany. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Germany.
Throughout your road trip in Germany, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Germany.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Germany fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Germany today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Bremen - arrival day
- Bremen - Arrival day
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Welcome to Bremen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Bremen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bremen is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bremen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Robben, a top-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dorint City-Hotel Bremen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Market Hall Eight Bremen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Rosso Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Red Rock. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Sammy`s Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2 – Bremen
- Bremen
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Drive 17 km, 46 min
- Rhododendron-Park Bremen
- Universum Science Center
- Schnoor
- Town Musicians of Bremen
- Bremen Roland
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bremen has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Bremen by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with a charming, a serene, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a heritage-rich, a majestic, a remarkable, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated in the charming city of Bremen. Your adventure starts at Rhododendron-park Bremen, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Universum Science Center. This curiosity-inducing science center is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bremen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Schnoor. This romantic street offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Town Musicians Of Bremen is also worth visiting, along with Bremen Roland. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Germany is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a popular restaurant in Bremen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bremen at Restaurant Jürgenshof, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bremen tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Wohnzimmer Bremen, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, König Lounge provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cottons Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 3 – Bremen, Duisburg, and Cologne
- Bremen
- Duisburg
- Cologne
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Drive 361 km, 4 hours 42 min
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
- Duisburg Inner Harbour
- Tiger & Turtle
- Schnoor
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Duisburg today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Duisburg, 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 Bremen to Duisburg may take around 2 hours 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Duisburg, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a notable park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Duisburg Zoo and admire its breathtaking features. When you’re ready, continue to Duisburg Inner Harbour, an up-and-coming marina beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Tiger & Turtle, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cologne. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french menu.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Grid Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toddy Tapper offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 4 – Cologne, Essen, and Hamburg
- Cologne
- Essen
- Hamburg
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Drive 442 km, 5 hours 6 min
- Old Market
- Cologne Cathedral
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Essen, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Hamburg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cologne, including a public square and a church. Start your day at Old Market. This instagrammable public square is a captivating place to see in Cologne. Then, wander over to Cologne Cathedral. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley.
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 7 min. Upon your arrival in Essen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Your self-guided tour starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a well-known museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Begin your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5 – Hamburg and Bremen
- Hamburg
- Bremen
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Drive 141 km, 2 hours 24 min
- Elbe Tunnel
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Planten un Blomen
- Stadtpark
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Hamburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bremen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a standout, a symbolic, a romantic, and a serene await you in Hamburg on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular historical landmark, Elbe Tunnel. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. A visit to this concert hall is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Hamburg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Miniatur Wunderland. This widely recognized museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Planten Un Blomen, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Stadtpark and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most interesting attractions.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bremen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bremen. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Paulaner's a der Schlachte, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bolero Schlachte beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vengo die Gemüseküche. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Schwarzer Hermann, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Eisen. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 6 – Bremen - departure day
- Bremen - Departure day
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- Schnoor
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Day 6 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bremen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bremen's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bremen.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Aioli im Schnoor NEU, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. 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!
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