Relaxed 12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dortmund to Hamburg and Hanover

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Photo of Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund.
Photo of old harbor tower clock at Dortmund.
Photo of Dortmund city centre aerial panoramic view.
Photo of Florianturm or Florian Tower telecommunications tower and Westfalenpark in Dortmund.
Photo of Dortmund historic city hall germany
Photo of Rose Garden in Dortmund,Germany.
Photo of Hoesch Museum Dortmund,Germany.
Photo of Smart City Dortmund,Germany
photo of view of Phoenix See Dortmund Germany !.
Dortmund, Downtown, Town house, Germany.
photo of view of Dortmund, Germany.
Phoenix See lake is an artificial lake on the former steelworks Phoenix East in Dortmund district Horde
Scenic summer evening panorama of architecture around Phoenix See in Dortmund, Germany
photo of view of Dortmund, Germany.
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 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
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Discover Germany stress-free with this 12-day relaxed road trip, winding through Dortmund, Muenster, Hamburg, Wolterdingen, Hanover, Laatzen, Porta Westfalica, Horn, Paderborn, and Wewelsburg. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Germany at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Dortmund, Muenster, Hamburg, Wolterdingen, Hanover, Laatzen, Porta Westfalica, Horn, Paderborn, and Wewelsburg. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Dortmund, 5 nights in Hamburg, and 3 nights in Hanover. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Germany.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Germany. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Dortmund, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 12-day journey across Germany and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Germany with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Germany.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Germany. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Miniatur Wunderland. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

Traveling leisurely through Germany means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Heide Park. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Hagenbeck Zoo. Get close to the spectacular Elbe Tunnel and the wonderful Hanover Zoo. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Germany's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Germany.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Germany. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Germany's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Germany.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Germany. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 11 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 12 days of your self-drive road trip in Germany. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 12-day vacation in Germany and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Germany today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Westfalenpark
German Football MuseumDortmund U-TowerDortmund ZooCasino Hohensyburg
LWL Museum of Natural History with PlanetariumBotanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of MünsterSchlossplatz
StadtparkInternational Maritime Museum HamburgHamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonie
St. Pauli PiersElbe TunnelPanoptikumSt Michael's ChurchPlanten un Blomen
St Nikolai MemorialTownhallChilehausCHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs SchokoladenmuseumMönckebergstraße

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dortmund - Arrival day
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  • Westfalenpark
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Your relaxed road trip through Germany starts when you reach the incredible city of Dortmund, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dortmund and begin your adventure in Germany.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Meeting, die Café-Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Dortmund. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zum Alten Markt, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ringhotel Drees. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dortmund.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Dortmund and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany. Enjoy your first taste of Dortmund as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 30 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • German Football Museum
  • Dortmund U-Tower
  • Dortmund Zoo
  • Casino Hohensyburg
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dortmund, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dortmund allows for both. Start by heading to German Football Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Dortmund U-tower, a breathtaking art installation, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Dortmund Zoo, a locally renowned zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Casino Hohensyburg.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dortmund offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Germany, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dortmund.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dortmund by reserving a table at The Stage. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern and creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Grammons Restaurant, recognized for its delicious contemporary and classic french dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dortmund and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Gaststätte Lütge-eck, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dortmund
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 354 km, 4 hours 23 min

  • LWL Museum of Natural History with Planetarium
  • Botanical Garden of the Westphalian Wilhelm University of Münster
  • Schlossplatz
  • More

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Germany gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Muenster. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Hamburg, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lwl Museum Of Natural History With Planetarium. This worthwhile museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Botanical Garden Of The Westphalian Wilhelm University Of Münster, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Schlossplatz, one of the most intriguing places to see in Dortmund. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Hamburg in this laid-back road trip in Germany. You'll stay here for 5 nights.

Exploring the food culture in Hamburg offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Hamburg by reserving a table at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative and international menu. For a different taste experience, head to Haerlin, recognized for its delicious creative french and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local favorite known for its delightful creative and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning creative and modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Hamburg and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Muenster can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 19 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • Stadtpark
  • International Maritime Museum Hamburg
  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Hamburg!

Today’s itinerary in Hamburg covers several incredible sights, including a park, a maritime museum, a haunted house, a museum, a concert hall and much more! Start your adventure at Stadtpark. This well-known park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of International Maritime Museum Hamburg, a must-see maritime museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Hamburg Dungeon. This captivating haunted house offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Miniatur Wunderland, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hamburg at Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, 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 NOM vietnamese fusion food. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hamburg tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Hamburg and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Cafe Miller, known for its inviting atmosphere. Copa Cabana Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Fontenay Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 12 km, 1 hour

  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Panoptikum
  • St Michael's Church
  • Planten un Blomen
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Hamburg, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Hamburg, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Hamburg. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! St. Pauli Piers is the perfect place to start. This pier is one of the most interesting places to visit in Hamburg. Next, head to Elbe Tunnel, a notable historical landmark, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Panoptikum. This instagrammable wax museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find St. Michael's Church and Planten Un Blomen. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Germany by joining a traveler-approved tour in Hamburg. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Hamburg that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Germany more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Hamburg to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Hamburg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Hamburg. The bars in Hamburg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tower Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Black Forest Bar - By Henn, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 2 km, 37 min

  • St Nikolai Memorial
  • Townhall
  • Chilehaus
  • CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum
  • Mönckebergstraße
  • More

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Hamburg, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Germany are extraordinary.

Mönckebergstraße is a fantastic place you can explore today in Hamburg. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Hamburg-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at St. Nikolai Memorial. This beloved monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Hamburg Townhall, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Chilehaus, one of the most intriguing places to see in Hamburg. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Germany. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Germany and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Hamburg, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brücke 10, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Shiso Burger Hamburg offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hamburg.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Hamburg’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Germany.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Meyer Lansky's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Chug Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hamburg. Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 31 km, 1 hour 19 min

  • Hamburger Kunsthalle
  • Tierpark Hagenbeck
  • Altonaer Volkspark
  • Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical of University Hamburg
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Germany means 24 hours of making the best memories in Hamburg. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Hamburg. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Hamburg!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Hamburg on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Hamburger Kunsthalle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich art gallery before continuing your journey. Hagenbeck Zoo is your next stop. This notable zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Hamburg.

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 Altonaer Volkspark. This picturesque park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical Of University Hamburg.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Germany more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Hamburg offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Hamburg has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Das Feuerschiff LV 13, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Hamburg, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Hafen Hamburg. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Hamburg. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Dacaio Hamburg, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Café May is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jahreszeiten Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Hamburg can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Germany!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hamburg
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 181 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Lüneburg Heath
  • Heide Park
  • KRAKE
  • More

On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Germany. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Germany.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Lüneburg Heath Nature Park. This underrated nature reserve is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Heide Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Hamburg, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Krake. This curiosity-inducing amusement park is a traveler-favorite.

In the city of Hanover, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Germany.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Handwerk, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern and creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Jante is one of the best restaurants for creative and modern cuisine in Hanover. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Votum. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Hanover and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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 your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Germany!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 18 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Hanover Zoo
  • SEA LIFE Hannover
  • Berggarten Hannover
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • More

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Germany, you’ll go deep into Hanover, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Hanover, and meet locals along the way!

Immerse yourself in Hanover’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hanover Zoo. This awe-inspiring zoo is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Sea Life Hannover, a must-visit aquarium 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 Berggarten, an often recommended botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Herrenhausen Gardens, known for its visually striking features.

Germany makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Germany also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Hanover offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Guru, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Dublin Inn boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Hanover.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Altstadt-treff, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, My Way Cocktailbar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Hanover!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 21 km, 54 min

  • Market Church Hannover
  • Markthalle
  • Maschpark
  • Hanover Fairground
  • Kramerstraße
  • More

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Germany, you’ll explore the area around Hanover, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Hanover will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Germany.

Kramerstraße is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Hanover. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Today’s itinerary in Hanover covers several incredible sights, including a church, a food market, a park, an exposition center and much more! Start your adventure at Market Church. This underrated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Markthalle Hannover, a must-see food market in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Masch Park. This up-and-coming park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Germany. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Hanover, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Masa Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hanover.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Hanover and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Germany!

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Day 11

Day 11

  • Hanover
  • Dortmund
  • More

Drive 269 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Emperor William Monument
  • Externsteine
  • Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum
  • Wewelsburg
  • More

Day 11 of your self-drive tour in Germany is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Porta Westfalica and end it in the village of Wewelsburg. You’ll stay in Dortmund for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Germany.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hanover, including a monument, a rock formation, a museum, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Emperor William Monument. This up-and-coming monument is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Externsteine, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Hanover 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 Heinz Nixdorf Museumsforum, a beloved museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Wewelsburg.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dortmund. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Germany by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dortmund has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Brasserie Lotte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ALEX Dortmund offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kara's Restaurant - Dortmund. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dortmund.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dortmund.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Germany!

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Day 12

Day 12

  • Dortmund - Departure day
  • More
  • Rombergpark Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Germany is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dortmund.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Dortmund’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Thier-Galerie Dortmund. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany. Savor your final moments in Germany at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Rombergpark Botanical Garden. This worthwhile botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dortmund or just grab something light to keep you going.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Ratskeller-Aplerbeck, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, KLUBHAUS1249 offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dortmund and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Germany is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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