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

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Photo of view over the Baakenpark in Hamburg.
Photo of tourist woman visiting the city of Hamburg, Germany.
Photo of beautiful view of Hamburg city center with town hall and Alster river, Germany.
Photo of view of a park in front of the hanseatic courthouse in Hamburg, Germany.
Photo of cityscape of Hamburg from the famous tower Michaelis with view to the city and the harbor.
Photo of beautiful view of famous Hamburg town hall.
Photo of St. Michael Church is the most famous lutheran church in the Hamburg city, Germany.
Photo of International Maritime Museum Hamburg,Germany.
Photo of Miniature wonderland Hamburg,Germany.
Photo of tourist woman visiting Speicherstadt district in the port of Hamburg.
photo of view of Hamburg City Hall or Hamburger Rathaus is the seat of local government of Hamburg, Germany
photo of view of View over Elbphilharmony, Harbour, Hamburg, Germany.
photo of view of View over historical Hamburg, Germany.
photo of  view of vvHistoric Red Brick Buildings and cobblestone Holländischer Brook Fleet bridge in Hamburg, Germany
photo of view of Pink Cherryblossom in Hamburg City, Germany. High quality photo
Photo of castle Huelshoff, Muenster, Germany.
Photo of St.-Paulus-Dom, Muenster.
Photo of lake in Muenster, Germany.
Photo of Ulmer Munster Cathedral aerial panoramic view.
Photo of Muenster, Botanical Garden, Germany.
Photo of St Lambert Church in the old town of Muenster, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Photo of pink cherry blossom trees in Muenster, NRW, Germany.
Photo of cathedral Square in Muenster, Germany.
Photo of castle in münster westfalen.
Photo of Muenster promenade with bikes
Photo of the trendy district at the port of Münster in Westphalia.
photo of  view  of An image of the Saint Paul Dom, Minster of Muenster Germany.
photo of view  of The picture showcases the serene lake in Muenster, located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The tranquil waters are surrounded by lush greenery and complemented by the city's charming
photo  of view of The famous Prinzipalmarkt with the Lamberti Church in Muenster, Germany.
photo of view of Sunset autumn in Muenster, Germany.
Aerial view of the cathedral in Cologne and Hohenzollern bridge over Rhein, Germany
Photo of Cologne sunset city skyline with Cologne Cathedral and Rhine River, Cologne, Germany.
Photo of Cologne's cathedral.
Photo of flora Botanical garden in Cologne.
Photo of happy tourist girl holding a German flag against the Rhine bridge and Cologne Dom Cathedral.
Photo of church Gross St Martin with unique colorful houses in the old town of Cologne, Germany.
Photo of Gross Saint Martin in Cologne, Germany.
Photo of detail of the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.
Photo of the cozy patio with green in the center of Cologne, Germany.
Photo of young happy tourist with a German flag at the old town or Altstadt in Cologne fish market square.
Photo of Cologne Koln, Germany, Panorama view of the Rhine River with Hohenzollernbrücke.
Photo of Cologne city skyline in summer along the Rhine river, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
photo of view of Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge through Rhine river aerial panoramic view in Cologne, Germany
Photo of building of Hannover State Opera, Lower Saxony, Germany.
Photo of Hanover, Germany. Building of New Town Hall reflecting in water on sunset.
Photo of panoramic view of Hanover cityscape in Germany.
Photo of old library building in the herrenhausen district of Hanover city in Germany.
Photo of the Maschteich with the surrounding nature at the Stadtpark in Hanover.
Photo of golden autumn in Hanover, Massachusetts cemetery.
Photo of main building of the Leibniz University in Hanover, Germany.
Photo of Herrenhausen Gardens of Herrenhausen Palace located in Hannover, Germany.
Photo of tourist girl visiting the ruins of the church of Aegidienkirche  in Hanover, Germany.
Photo of Beauty of nature of Herrenhausen gardens (baroque style) of Hannover with statue and flowerbeds.
Photo of old Town Hall or Altes Rathaus in Hannover city, Germany.
photo of view of Magnificent, castle-like building of New City Hall in Hannover, Lower Saxony, Germany., reflected in autumn park pond. It is a popular tourist attraction in Hannover
photo of view of German Museum of Caricature and Drawing or Wilhelm Busch Museum in Hanover city, Germany.
photo of  view of Hanover, Germany.
Hanover, Ballhof, Historic center
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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, 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 Heide Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hamburg, Muenster, Duisburg, Königswinter, Brühl, Cologne, Essen, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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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
Landschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooSchloss DrachenburgPhantasialand
Old MarketCologne CathedralUNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Hamburg. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? SuRolls offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss bona'me. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-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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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 Hamburg. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hamburg Dungeon. This captivating haunted house is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Miniatur Wunderland, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Elbe Philharmonic Hall, one of the most famous places to see in Hamburg. This concert hall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, St. Pauli Piers. Wander around and soak in the history-steeped atmosphere this pier offers. Then, head to Elbe Tunnel, a top-rated historical landmark that adds another dimension to your day.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Muenster by securing a reservation at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Coeur D'Artichaut, 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 Spitzner, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Atelier, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Spooky's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Münster
  • Cologne
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Drive 271 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Schloss Drachenburg
  • Phantasialand
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Duisburg, Königswinter, and Brühl, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Muenster, including a park, a zoo, a castle, an amusement park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This interesting park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Duisburg Zoo, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Muenster 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 Schloss Drachenburg, a well-known castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Phantasialand.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cologne. Cologne 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 Cologne. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern 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 La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. 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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Hanover
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Old Market
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
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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 Essen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Cologne. Your adventure starts at Old Market, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Jante is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Votum. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Seña offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Sternwarte is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Dormero Hotel Hannover is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Hanover and Wolterdingen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Hanover today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Markthalle Hannover. This photogenic food market will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Herrenhausen Gardens and learn what makes this history-steeped botanical garden unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the famous Heide Park.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Hamburg - Departure day
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  • Mönckebergstraße
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Day 6 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.

One of the best things to do on your last day 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. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.

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

Savor the flavors at Edelcurry, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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