4-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling west to Dortmund
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Explore the best of Germany on a 4-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hanover, Laatzen, Dortmund, Essen, and Duisburg. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 Hanover and 1 night in Dortmund. 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 Hanover, 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. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord and Hanover Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, learn more about the unique Duisburg Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Herrenhausen Gardens.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Laatzen, Dortmund, Essen, and Duisburg, 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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Day 1
- Hanover - Arrival day
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- Maschpark
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Hanover and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Hanover for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Hanover 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 Masch Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Hanover. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Meteora, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Añejo boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Quarks Bar Hannover. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Seña, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Sternwarte is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hanover
- Dortmund
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Markthalle
- Hanover Fairground
- Hanover Zoo
- Berggarten Hannover
- Herrenhäuser Gärten
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover and Laatzen, 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 Dortmund. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. Whether you decide to explore Hanover on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Markthalle Hannover is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable food market before continuing your journey. Hanover Fairground is your next stop. This worthwhile exposition center is one of the best-rated sights in Hanover.
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 Hanover Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Berggarten and Herrenhausen Gardens.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dortmund. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Dortmund, 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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Stage, 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 1-star Michelin-awardee, Grammons Restaurant, known for its delicious contemporary and classic french cuisine.
Continue your lively evening at Vater&sohn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Loka Lounge Dortmund is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Central Bar & More Dortmund ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!
Day 3
- Dortmund
- Hanover
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Drive 340 km, 4 hours 13 min
- UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- Duisburg Zoo
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. 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, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Dortmund. Your adventure starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This locally renowned park is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dortmund's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hanover. Hanover offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hanover's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Handwerk in Hanover by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Handwerk offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern and creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Jante, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative and modern cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Votum, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Altstadt-treff after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to My Way Cocktailbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 4
- Hanover - Departure day
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- Eilenriede City Forest
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Day 4 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Eilenriede. This beloved park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hanover’s popular marketplace, Ernst-August-Galerie. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.
If you're eager to try something different, consider BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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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