9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hamburg traveling west to Dortmund, Koblenz, Karlsruhe, Frankfurt, and Hanover

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hamburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a church, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Miniatur Wunderland. This is a top-rated museum you should not miss. Another must-see is St. Michael's Church, a notable church in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hagenbeck Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Stadtpark, another of the city’s interesting attractions.

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 Hamburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Miller, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Copa Cabana Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Fontenay Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Hamburg allows for both. Start by heading to Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This notable museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover St. Pauli Piers, an instagrammable pier, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Tunnel, a well-known historical landmark. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Schlossplatz.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dortmund, 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 Dortmund's best restaurants.

Start your culinary exploration in Dortmund by securing a reservation at The Stage. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Grammons Restaurant, celebrated for its delectable contemporary and classic french menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Vater&sohn, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Loka Lounge Dortmund offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dortmund. Central Bar & More Dortmund 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cologne and Brühl. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Koblenz, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dortmund. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Cologne Zoological Garden is the perfect place to start. This zoo is one of the most well-known places to visit in Dortmund. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church, known for its picture-perfect features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Phantasialand. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Koblenz. 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 Koblenz. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Koblenz by reserving a table at Verbene. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Altes Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Spökes, known for its lively atmosphere. Dubai Shisha Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Excalibur - The Rock Cafe offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Koblenz, Keldung, and Speyer. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Koblenz, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a notable castle in the city. Then, head to Deutsches Eck and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Koblenz, and when you are ready for more, go to Eltz Castle. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the popular Technik Museum Speyer.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible regional menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, sein is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Karlsruhe. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at TAWA YAMA FINE. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern and international cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Phono Craftbeer Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Electric Eel offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jean-claude Cocktail Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the notable Heidelberg Zoo, an eye-catching zoo in Karlsruhe. Next, go to Old Bridge Heidelberg.

After visiting Heidelberg Zoo and Old Bridge Heidelberg, have a stroll along Karlsruhe's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Heidelberger Marktplatz. This stunning public square offers a unique experience. Heidelberg Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt. 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 Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Lafleur, celebrated for its delectable modern french and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Erno's Bistro, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing classic french and modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Gute Stute. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Gleis 25, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Frankfurt and Kassel, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Frankfurt includes a public square, a monument, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Römerberg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Iron Footbridge, an interesting monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Palmengarten, a serene botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Jante, known for its delicious creative and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Hanover is Votum, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious creative and modern menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Seña, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Sternwarte is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Dormero Hotel Hannover also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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