7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg, Düsseldorf, and Cologne and surrounding area

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 Dortmund. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Dortmund’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at German Football Museum. This photogenic museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Rombergpark Botanical Garden, a must-visit botanical garden 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 Dortmund Zoo, an interesting zoo.

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

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

Discover the culinary delights of Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative and international cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Haerlin, renowned for its delicious creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hamburg, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Elbe Tunnel. This captivating historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St. Pauli Piers, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This spectacular concert hall is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Miniatur Wunderland, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Düsseldorf by reserving a table at Pink Pepper. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Yoshi by Nagaya, renowned for its delectable japanese and sushi dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Le Flair, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite french and contemporary 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 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.

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Düsseldorf on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum Dusseldorf is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking aquarium before continuing your journey. Nord Park is your next stop. This up-and-coming park is one of the best-rated sights in Düsseldorf.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Japanese Garden. This serene botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Rheinturm and Schloss Benrath.

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 Düsseldorf's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coffee Fellows. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Studio 1, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sakura Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Engel Rockbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Düsseldorf and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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 - Cologne. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dortmund. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Old Market, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Cologne Cathedral, one of the most famous places to see in Cologne. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cologne Zoological Garden. Wander around and soak in the stunning atmosphere this zoo offers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dortmund. Dortmund 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 Dortmund. 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gaststätte Lütge-eck, a top-rated bar in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.