11-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Hamburg and Cologne and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Hanover, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Hanover and Laatzen. You still have 1 night left in Hanover.

Start by visiting Herrenhausen Gardens, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Eilenriede, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing park renowned for its eye-catching features.

We also recommend visiting Hanover Fairground, an often recommended exposition center.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hanover and your accommodation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Germany.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Hamburg Townhall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect city hall before continuing your journey. Miniatur Wunderland is your next stop. This top-rated 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 International Maritime Museum Hamburg. This heritage-rich maritime museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Speicherstadt.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of SuRolls, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of bona'me, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Scandic Hamburg Emporio. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Hamburg, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Elbe Philharmonic Hall, a top-rated concert hall in the city. Then, head to Hamburg Harbor and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped marina.

There are many interesting places to see in Hamburg, and when you are ready for more, go to St. Michael's Church. This is one of the city’s most notable stunning spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the well-known Elbe Tunnel. Not far away, you'll also find St. Pauli Piers. This pier is a history-steeped highlight in Hamburg. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Planten Un Blomen, a locally renowned botanical garden 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Miller, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Copa Cabana Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Fontenay Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Germany. With 1 night left in Hamburg, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your journey to Schnoor, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Universum Science Center.

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

As you explore more of Hamburg, 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 a wonderful meal at Edelcurry, a top-rated dining spot in Hamburg. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Deichgraf Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Hamburg.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tower Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Black Forest Bar - By Henn for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Ciu` Die Bar 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!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Muenster, 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 4 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a museum, a botanical garden, a palace, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This frequently visited museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Schloss Münster. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Schlossplatz. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this public square.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Germany!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cologne has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Cologne by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, a public square, a church, a boardwalk and much more! Begin your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This is a popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Rhine Garden Sculpture, a locally appreciated park in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Old Market. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral, another of the city’s spectacular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Museum Ludwig, a visually striking place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Rheinboulevard to your itinerary. This often recommended boardwalk offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Cologne.

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 explore more of Cologne, 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 delicious meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at RheinZeit. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Soul Bar Cologne, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Germany!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t miss Schildergasse in Cologne today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Belgisches Viertel, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Cologne.

Start your adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ulrepforte located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Media Park Köln Mbh. After the cultural center, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cologne Zoological Garden. Visitors usually appreciate the gorgeous 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cologne. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Limani, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the evening going at Suderman, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Goethe House is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Römerberg, a locally renowned public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Iron Footbridge, a symbolic monument, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cologne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated German Film Museum. If you’re looking for more, Städel Museum is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cologne and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe Riese Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bangkok Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Servus Colonia Alpina as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

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