One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hamburg traveling west to Muenster, Cologne, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Hanover

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Explore the best of Germany on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hamburg, Muenster, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, Hanover, and Wolterdingen. 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 Hamburg, 1 night in Muenster, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Frankfurt, and 1 night in Hanover. 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 Hamburg, 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 Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hamburg, Muenster, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, Hanover, and Wolterdingen, 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
Planten un Blomen
Hamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonieSt. Pauli PiersElbe Tunnel
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooTiger & Turtle
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumPhantasialand
Heidelberg PalaceMercedes-Benz MuseumSchlossplatz
RömerbergIron FootbridgePalmengarten FrankfurtKarlsaue
MarkthalleHerrenhäuser GärtenHeide Park
Mönckebergstraße

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Hamburg - Arrival day
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  • Planten un Blomen
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Welcome to Hamburg, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Hamburg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hamburg 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 Planten Un Blomen, or just 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 Hamburg. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider SuRolls, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at bona'me. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, known for its lively atmosphere. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Hamburg
  • Münster
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Drive 287 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Muenster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Hamburg covers several incredible sights, including a haunted house, a museum, a concert hall, a pier, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Hamburg Dungeon. This locally renowned haunted house is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Miniatur Wunderland, a must-see museum 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This spectacular concert hall offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St. Pauli Piers, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Elbe Tunnel. This breathtaking historical landmark offers a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Muenster. Muenster offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Muenster by reserving a table at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Coeur D'Artichaut, recognized for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Spitzner, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Muenster. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, known for its inviting atmosphere. Atelier is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Spooky's provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Münster
  • Cologne
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Tiger & Turtle
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On day 3 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 Essen and Duisburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This locally renowned museum is a historic place to see in Muenster. Continue your discovery at Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a breathtaking park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Muenster, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. This well-known zoo offers a breathtaking encounter with Muenster. Tiger & Turtle 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 Muenster.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Heidelberg
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne and Brühl. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Heidelberg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral, a picture-perfect church in Cologne. Next, go to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

After visiting Cologne Cathedral and Lindt Chocolate Museum, take time to explore Cologne's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Phantasialand. This photogenic amusement park offers a unique experience.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Bar Goodfellas. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 336 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Schlossplatz
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Heidelberg and Stuttgart, 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Heidelberg, including a castle, a museum, and a public square. Start your day at Heidelberg Castle. This enchanting castle is a widely recognized place to see in Heidelberg. Then, wander over to Mercedes-benz Museum. If historic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Schloßplatz. This visually striking public square is a favorite among visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Frankfurt. Frankfurt offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the evening going at Gute Stute, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gleis 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Frankfurt
  • Hanover
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Drive 362 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Karlsaue
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Frankfurt and Kassel. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Römerberg. This well-known public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Iron Footbridge, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Palmengarten, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Frankfurt. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Karlsaue. Wander around and soak in the detailed atmosphere this park offers.

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

As you explore more of Hanover, 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.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover 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 7

Day 7

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Wolterdingen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities await you in Hanover on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing food market, Markthalle Hannover. Afterward, continue to Herrenhausen Gardens.

As you explore Hanover’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Heide Park. This extraordinary amusement park is an essential stop that should not be missed.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hamburg, 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 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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, The Table Kevin Fehling delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and international cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Haerlin, acclaimed for its delectable creative french and classic specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at 100/200 Kitchen, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Miller, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Copa Cabana Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Fontenay Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Say good night to Hamburg and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hamburg - Departure day
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  • Mönckebergstraße
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Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hamburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Mönckebergstraße, a street that captures the true essence of Hamburg. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Edelcurry, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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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