7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen

On day 2 of your road trip in Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cologne. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hanover, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is a historic place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Museum Ludwig, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. This locally renowned zoo offers a mesmerizing encounter with Cologne. Rheinboulevard is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hanover, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hanover's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Hanover by booking a table at Handwerk, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Hanover, Jante shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Votum is known as a top local spot for its delicious creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Seña. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sternwarte, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Hanover and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hamburg Dungeon. This captivating haunted house is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Miniatur Wunderland, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out St. Michael's Church, one of the most interesting places to see in Hamburg. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Elbe Tunnel. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Finally, take the path to the captivating St. Pauli Piers, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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 Hamburg. 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 Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Hamburg tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bremen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Hamburg is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a famous concert hall that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Planten Un Blomen, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Stadtpark. This park is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Hamburg at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Hagenbeck Zoo. After exploring the zoo, head to the often recommended Altonaer Volkspark. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bremen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bremen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Hotel Robben, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bremen tonight.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bremen, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular museum in the city. Then, head to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and soak in the ambiance of this respected park.

There are many interesting places to see in Bremen and when you are ready for more, go to Duisburg Zoo. This is one of the city’s most notable spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cologne, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cologne's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!