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

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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
Photo of classic view of famous Hamburg Speicherstadt warehouse district with sightseeing tour boat on a sunny day in summer.
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 view of Bremen old town aerial panoramic view in Germany.
Photo of ancient Bremen market square in the centre of the Hanseatic City of Bremen with view on famous Church of Our Lady.
Photo of Am Wall Windmill or Muhle am Wall is an important and iconic building in Bremen, Germany.
Photo of colorful facades with bremer roland statue in Bremen, Germany.
Photo of Colorful houses in historic Schnoorviertel in Bremen, Germany.
Photo of In der Dämmerung liegen Dreimaster vor der Promenade an der Weser in Bremen.
Photo of Kunsthalle Museum in the historical centre of Bremen ,Germany.
Scenery in a park in spring:a white pergola,bench an flowering Rhododendrons on the left(Knoops park,Bremen,Germany
Photo of the historic part of Bremen, the old town. Bremen Cathedral ( St. Petri Dom Bremen ).
Mill in green park and lake, Bremen, Germany
Photo of grass waving in the wind with beautiful werdersee, a river in bremen, in the background at sunset.
photo of view of Traditional colorful houses in historic Schnoor neighborhood in Bremen, Germany.
photo of view of Bremen, Germany. Aerial View on Historical Center of Bremen, Marktplatz at Sunrise.
photo of view of Bremen, Germany. Aerial View on Historical Center of Bremen, Marktplatz at Sunrise.
photo of view of Bremen, Germany. Aerial View on Historical Center of Bremen, Marktplatz at Sunrise.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Germany as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cologne, Hanover, Wolterdingen, Hamburg, Bremen, Essen, and Duisburg.

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 Cologne, 1 night in Hanover, 2 nights in Hamburg, and 1 night in Bremen. 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 Cologne, 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Cologne Cathedral, learn more about the unique Heide Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hagenbeck Zoo.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cologne, Hanover, Wolterdingen, Hamburg, Bremen, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Rheinpark
Cologne CathedralMuseum LudwigCologne Zoological GardenRheinboulevard
MarkthalleHerrenhäuser GärtenHeide Park
Hamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandSt Michael's ChurchElbe TunnelSt. Pauli Piers
ElbphilharmoniePlanten un BlomenStadtparkTierpark HagenbeckAltonaer Volkspark
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg Zoo
Old Market

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cologne - Arrival day
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  • Rheinpark
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Your road trip adventure in Germany begins as soon as you reach Cologne and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cologne 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.

Cologne 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 Rheinpark, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cologne. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Germany. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Cologne, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cologne
  • Hanover
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Museum Ludwig
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • Rheinboulevard
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hanover, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Cologne Cathedral. This breathtaking church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Museum Ludwig, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cologne Zoological Garden, an interesting zoo. For a change of scene, check out Rheinboulevard, known for its romantic features.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Hanover. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Jante, celebrated for its delectable creative and modern menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Votum, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Hanover and Wolterdingen. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hamburg, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities await you in Hanover on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended food market, Markthalle Hannover. Afterward, continue to Herrenhausen Gardens, a botanical garden every traveler should visit.

As you explore Hanover’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Heide Park. This astonishing amusement park is an essential stop.

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.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Hamburg by securing a reservation at The Table Kevin Fehling. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative and international cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Haerlin, celebrated for its delectable creative french and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover 100/200 Kitchen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Scandic Hamburg Emporio is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 6 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • St Michael's Church
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • More

Day 4 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and scenic views. Start at the interesting Hamburg Dungeon, a visually striking haunted house in Hamburg. Next, go to Miniatur Wunderland.

After visiting Hamburg Dungeon and Miniatur Wunderland, have a stroll along Hamburg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Michael's Church. This stunning church offers a unique experience. Elbe Tunnel is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to St. Pauli Piers, one of the most visually striking places to visit 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss NOM vietnamese fusion food. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

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.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • Bremen
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Drive 140 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Planten un Blomen
  • Stadtpark
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • Altonaer Volkspark
  • More

On day 5 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 Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Hamburg is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a concert hall, a botanical garden, a park, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the spectacular Elbe Philharmonic Hall and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Planten Un Blomen, a mesmerizing botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Stadtpark, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Hagenbeck Zoo. When you're finished at the zoo, Altonaer Volkspark awaits your visit. This park is a picturesque highlight on today's itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bremen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Bremen, 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 a lovely meal at Hotel Robben, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dorint City-Hotel Bremen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Market Hall Eight Bremen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bremen tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rosso Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Red Rock offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bremen. Sammy`s Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bremen
  • Cologne
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Drive 354 km, 4 hours 33 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Essen and Duisburg, 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Bremen. Your adventure starts at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This notable park is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bremen's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Duisburg Zoo. This breathtaking 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 Cologne. Cologne offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional french and seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Ox & Klee, known for its delicious modern and creative cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Cologne is La Cuisine Rademacher, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern french menu.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soul Bar Cologne, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Cologne - Departure day
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  • Old Market
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Day 7 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cologne 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 Old Market. This captivating public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Cologne’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Hohe Straße. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Cologne. 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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