7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Düsseldorf traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, and Bielefeld

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Explore the best of Germany on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, Bielefeld, and Cologne. 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 2 nights in Düsseldorf, 1 night in Hamburg, 2 nights in Berlin, and 1 night in Bielefeld. 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 Düsseldorf, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, Bielefeld, and Cologne, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Hofgarten
Japanese GardenNord ParkRheinturmSchloss BenrathHofgarten
Elbe TunnelHamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonie
ZwingerMemorial to the Murdered Jews of EuropeBrandenburg Gate
AlexanderplatzEast Side GalleryCheckpoint CharliePotsdamer PlatzBrandenburg Gate
Cologne Zoological GardenCologne CathedralOld MarketCologne Chocolate Museum
Hofgarten

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Day 1

Day 1 – Düsseldorf - arrival day

  • Dusseldorf - Arrival day
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  • Hofgarten
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Düsseldorf and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Düsseldorf for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Düsseldorf is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Hofgarten or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Düsseldorf. 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 Düsseldorf. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated dining spot in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood for something new, try Brewery im Füchschen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The ASH Düsseldorf. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Düsseldorf.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Düsseldorf and Hamburg

  • Dusseldorf
  • Hamburg
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Drive 436 km, 5 hours 7 min

  • Japanese Garden
  • Nord Park
  • Rheinturm
  • Schloss Benrath
  • Hofgarten
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Düsseldorf, 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.

Düsseldorf is home to plenty of attractions that offer a romantic, a majestic, a stunning, a photogenic, a remarkable, a culturally significant, and a standout! Start at Japanese Garden, a beloved botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Nord Park, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Rheinturm. This observation deck is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Düsseldorf at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Schloss Benrath.

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.

As you explore more of Hamburg, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Scandic Hamburg Emporio offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Hamburg and Berlin

  • Hamburg
  • Berlin
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Drive 289 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Berlin. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, an enchanting, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, and a grand. Start at the popular St. Pauli Piers, an enchanting pier in Hamburg. Next, go to Elbe Tunnel.

After visiting St. Pauli Piers and Elbe Tunnel, take time to explore Hamburg's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hamburg Dungeon. This picture-perfect haunted house offers a unique experience. Miniatur Wunderland is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Hamburg.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Rutz, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer is one of the best restaurants for creative cuisine in Berlin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at FACIL. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and contemporary cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Monkey Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Saint Jean, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Green Door Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Berlin and Dresden

  • Berlin
  • Dresden
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Drive 385 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Zwinger
  • Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Berlin, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Berlin for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dresden and Berlin to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Just a short distance away is Brandenburg Gate, a historic monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dresden, 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 Berlin to Dresden may take around 2 hours 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dresden, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Zwinger is a popular palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Berlin and your accommodation.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berlin TV Tower. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Sharlie Cheen Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Berlin Icebar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Curtain Club likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Germany and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Berlin and Bielefeld

  • Berlin
  • Bielefeld
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Drive 402 km, 4 hours 58 min

  • Alexanderplatz
  • East Side Gallery
  • Checkpoint Charlie
  • Potsdamer Platz
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • More

On day 5 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 Berlin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bielefeld, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Berlin covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a street art, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Alexanderplatz. This globally renowned public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of East Side Gallery, a must-see street art in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Checkpoint Charlie. This famous historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Potsdamer Platz, where you can take in its picture-perfect features.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bielefeld. 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 reserve a table at GlückundSeligkeit, an iconic dining spot in Bielefeld. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of New Orleans, a popular restaurant in Bielefeld. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Knigge, a hidden gem nestled in Bielefeld. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Die Villa, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Three Sixty Bielefeld provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cutie offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Bielefeld, Cologne, and Düsseldorf

  • Bielefeld
  • Cologne
  • Dusseldorf
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • More

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

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cologne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Cologne Zoological Garden, a locally renowned zoo in Cologne. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Cologne Cathedral. This impressive church is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Old Market is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped public square in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally renowned Lindt Chocolate Museum and discover what makes this museum unique.

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 Düsseldorf. Düsseldorf 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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Düsseldorf by booking a table at Pink Pepper. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Yoshi by Nagaya, celebrated for its delectable japanese and sushi menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Le Flair, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing french and contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Studio 1, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sakura Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Engel Rockbar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Düsseldorf - departure day

  • Dusseldorf - Departure day
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  • Hofgarten
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Düsseldorf before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Düsseldorf’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Düsseldorf allows for both. Start by heading to Rheinpromenade. This locally appreciated boardwalk provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Düsseldorf. 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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