12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Bielefeld, Hamburg, and Hanover

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 Cologne. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bielefeld, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cologne allows for both. Start by heading to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This locally renowned museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden, an interesting zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the curiosity-inducing Japanese Garden Leverkusen.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bielefeld, 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 Bielefeld. 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 GlückundSeligkeit, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, New Orleans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Knigge is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bielefeld.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Die Villa, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Three Sixty Bielefeld offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cutie provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bielefeld for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Bielefeld, including a zoo, a botanical garden, a castle, a laser tag arena, a lake and much more! Start your day with a visit to Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen. This popular zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Botanical Garden, which may be one of the most eye-catching places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bielefeld 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 Sparrenberg Castle, an up-and-coming castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Laserzone Lasertag Bielefeld and Obersee.

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

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Extra Blues Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Café Wunderbar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Faces Lounge & Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 3 nights left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hamburg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at St. Pauli Piers, a locally renowned pier in the city. Then, head to Elbe Tunnel and soak in the ambiance of this historic historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Hamburg, and when you are ready for more, go to Panoptikum. This is one of the city’s most well-known photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the wax museum, visit the popular St. Michael's Church. Not far away, you'll also find Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This concert hall is a visually striking highlight 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 delicious meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Cafe Miller, known for its lively atmosphere. Copa Cabana Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Fontenay Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hamburg has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Hamburg by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a museum, a haunted house, and a zoo. Start your adventure at Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This captivating museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Hamburg Dungeon located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Miniatur Wunderland. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Hagenbeck Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this zoo.

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 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.

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. Consider reserving a table at Deichgraf Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Tower Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Black Forest Bar - By Henn, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Ciu` Die Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Hamburg. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, a city hall, an art gallery, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at St. Nikolai Memorial. This is a curiosity-inducing monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Hamburg Townhall, a worthwhile city hall in Hamburg.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Hamburger Kunsthalle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Planten Un Blomen, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Stadtpark, a mesmerizing place of interest 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 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brücke 10, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Shiso Burger Hamburg is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Hamburg tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Meyer Lansky's after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Chug Club for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg 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!

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hanover for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the captivating Hanover Zoo, an instagrammable zoo in Hanover. Next, go to Eilenriede.

After visiting Hanover Zoo and Eilenriede, have a stroll along Hanover's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Markthalle Hannover. This instagrammable food market offers a unique experience. Market Church is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Guru, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Dublin Inn, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Hanover for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Hanover and Laatzen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hanover, including a botanical garden, an aquarium, a park, an exposition center and much more! Start your adventure at Herrenhausen Gardens. This notable botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Berggarten located in Hanover for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sea Life Hannover. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the aquarium, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Masch Park. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this park. Next up is Hanover Fairground, a highly recommended exposition center.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Masa Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.

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