12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling west to Hamburg, Bremen, Muenster, Cologne, and Frankfurt

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Hanover and Laatzen. You still have 1 night left in Hanover.

Start by visiting Herrenhausen Gardens, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Masch Park, another must-visit landmark and underrated park renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Hanover by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Landesmuseum Hannover. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Hanover experience. We also recommend visiting Hanover Fairground, a frequently visited exposition center.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hanover.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Guru, a popular restaurant in Hanover. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hanover at Dublin Inn, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hanover tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Altstadt-treff. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to My Way Cocktailbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Hamburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This awe-inspiring concert hall is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Hamburg Harbor, a must-visit marina in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to St. Michael's Church, a popular church. For a change of scene, check out Elbe Tunnel, known for its culturally significant features. We also recommend visiting St. Pauli Piers. This pier is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Planten Un Blomen, yet another popular attraction in Hamburg.

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.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated NOM vietnamese fusion food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Miller, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Copa Cabana Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fontenay Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Bremen, 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 Bremen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Universum Science Center is the perfect place to start. This science center is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to Bremen Town Hall (ensemble), a worthwhile city hall, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

Nearby, you'll also find Böttcherstraße and Schnoor. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Bremen Roland, an UNESCO world heritage-designated monument in Hamburg.

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

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.

Dine in style at Hotel Robben, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Market Hall Eight Bremen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bremen.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Rosso Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Red Rock is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sammy`s Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

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 1 vibrant destinations - Muenster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bremen, including a museum, a botanical garden, a palace, a public square and much more! Start your day at Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This instagrammable museum is a beloved place to see in Bremen. Then, wander over to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Schloss Münster. This romantic palace is a favorite among visitors.

Bremen offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Schlossplatz is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, an iconic dining spot in Muenster. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Schloßtheater Münster, a popular restaurant in Muenster. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße, a hidden gem nestled in Muenster. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Atelier offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Spooky's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 7 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 Cologne, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Muenster, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Cologne Zoological Garden, a notable zoo in the city. Then, head to Museum Ludwig and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Muenster, and when you are ready for more, go to Cologne Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most impressive UNESCO world heritage-designated spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the locally renowned Old Market.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 8 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Cologne. You have 1 night left in Cologne. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Cologne is Schildergasse. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is must-visit sightseeing destination and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a locally renowned museum, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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.

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 a delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Frankfurt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Palmengarten. This well-known botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Iron Footbridge, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Römerberg. This captivating public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Goethe House, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Frankfurt Cathedral is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

As you explore more of Frankfurt, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Im Herzen Afrikas, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Gute Stute, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gleis 25 provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Frankfurt. You’ll stay in Frankfurt for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A visit to Sachsenhausen in Frankfurt is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Start your day with a visit to Städel Museum. This intriguing art museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Museum For Communication Frankfurt, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Frankfurt on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to German Film Museum, an increasingly popular museum in the city.

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 Frankfurt. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Apfelwein Dax offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ariston Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jambo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Cosy Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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