9-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover traveling east to Hamburg, Berlin, and Dresden
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, 3 nights in Berlin, and 1 night in Dresden. 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland, learn more about the unique Elbe Philharmonic Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Berlin Zoological Garden.
As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Hamburg, Berlin, Dresden, and Leipzig, 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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- Opernplatz
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Welcome to Hanover, 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 Hanover's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Opernplatz, 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 Hanover. 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 Hanover, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Meteora, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar Añejo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Quarks Bar Hannover as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hanover.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Seña stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Dormero Hotel Hannover is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Germany!
Day 2
- Hanover
- Hamburg
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Drive 155 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Elbphilharmonie
- Miniatur Wunderland
- Speicherstadt
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. 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. Elbe Philharmonic Hall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning concert hall before continuing your journey. Miniatur Wunderland is your next stop. This astonishing museum 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 Speicherstadt. This UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Hamburg. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider SuRolls, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at bona'me. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 3
- Hamburg
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Drive 22 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Alsterfontaine
- St Michael's Church
- Elbe Tunnel
- St. Pauli Piers
- Planten un Blomen
- Tierpark Hagenbeck
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Day 3 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Hamburg. You have 1 night left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hamburg, including an art installation, a church, a historical landmark, a pier, a botanical garden, a zoo and much more! Start your day with a visit to Alsterfontaine. This intriguing art installation is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to St. Michael's Church, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Hamburg 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 Elbe Tunnel, an interesting historical landmark in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St. Pauli Piers and Planten Un Blomen. End your day with a visit to Hagenbeck Zoo, an interesting zoo that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
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 wonderful meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at NOM vietnamese fusion food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Miller after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Copa Cabana Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Fontenay Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Germany.
Day 4
- Hamburg
- Berlin
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Drive 301 km, 4 hours 3 min
- Charlottenburg Palace
- Kaiser-Wilhelm-Gedächtniskirche
- Mauerpark
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On day 4 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 Berlin. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berlin, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hamburg, including a palace, a church, and a park. Start your day at Charlottenburg Palace. This romantic palace is a well-known place to see in Hamburg. Then, wander over to Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche. If photogenic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Mauerpark. This eye-catching park is a favorite among visitors.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Berlin, 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 Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at NENI Berlin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Alt-Berliner Wirtshaus boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel Steglitz International. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Berlin.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Monkey Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Saint Jean is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Green Door Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Berlin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 5
- Berlin
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Drive 7 km, 48 min
- Brandenburg Gate
- Pergamon Museum
- Neues Museum
- Berlin Cathedral
- Alexanderplatz
- Mitte
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Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Mitte, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Berlin. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Berlin is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Brandenburg Gate, a timeless monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Pergamon Museum, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Neues Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Berlin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Berlin Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the world-famous Alexanderplatz.
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 Berlin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Berlin TV Tower. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berlin tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Sharlie Cheen Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Berlin Icebar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Curtain Club also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Germany!
Day 6
- Berlin
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Berlin Zoological Garden
- Reichstag
- Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe
- Topography of Terror
- East Side Gallery
- Kreuzberg
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Berlin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
A visit to Kreuzberg in Berlin is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Berlin. Begin your sightseeing with Berlin Zoological Garden. This impressive zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Reichstag Building, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Berlin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe. This locally renowned monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Topography Of Terror, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. East Side Gallery is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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 Berlin's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at BrewDog Berlin Mitte, a top-rated dining destination in Berlin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Marjellchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Leonardo Royal Hotel Berlin Alexanderplatz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berlin this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Booze Bar Berlin, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Victoria Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Berlin. Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.
Day 7
- Berlin
- Dresden
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Drive 199 km, 2 hours 51 min
- The Grand Garden of Dresden
- Zwinger
- Brühl's Terrace
- Frauenkirche, Dresden
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Dresden, 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 Dresden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the captivating The Grand Garden Of Dresden, a detailed park in Berlin. Next, go to Zwinger.
After visiting The Grand Garden Of Dresden and Zwinger, have a stroll along Berlin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Brühl's Terrace. This romantic public square offers a unique experience. Church Of Our Lady is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dresden. Dresden 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 Dresden. 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 Schwerelos – Das Achterbahn-Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Luisenhof, Dresden is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bakery Wippler GmbH. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dresden tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hebeda's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bbc – Bar Brasserie Cassis, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Blondes also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Germany!
Day 8
- Dresden
- Hanover
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Drive 395 km, 4 hours 29 min
- Wildpark Leipzig
- Bach-Museum Leipzig
- Neues Bach-Denkmal
- St. Thomas Church
- Marktplatz Leipzig
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Leipzig. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Wildpark Leipzig, a prime spot to begin your journey. This enchanting wildlife reserve is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bach-museum Leipzig, another must-visit landmark and up-and-coming museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dresden by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Neues Bach-denkmal. This respected monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dresden experience. We also recommend visiting St. Thomas Church, a frequently visited church. Nearby, you'll also find Marktplatz Leipzig, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Guru, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dublin Inn, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Altstadt-treff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. My Way Cocktailbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!
Day 9
- Hanover - Departure day
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- Schillerdenkmal
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Day 9 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 Friedrich Schiller. This intriguing sightseeing destination 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, Lister Meile. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in Germany, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Hanover.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Masa Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz is another top choice with a popular 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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