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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cologne. You’ll stay in Cologne for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cologne, including a museum, a church, a zoo, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cologne Cathedral, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cologne 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 Cologne Zoological Garden, a popular zoo in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Rheinpark.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Cologne as you explore Schildergasse. Take a leisurely stroll through unique and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Schildergasse offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

Keep the evening going at Soul Bar Cologne, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Oberhausen and Gelsenkirchen, 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 Hanover. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Gasometer Oberhausen, a locally renowned museum in the city. Then, head to Sea Life Oberhausen and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching aquarium.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Nordstern Park. This is one of the city’s most beloved awe-inspiring spots of interest.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Meteora, a top-rated dining destination in Hanover. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar Añejo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Quarks Bar Hannover. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hanover this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Seña, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Sternwarte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dormero Hotel Hannover provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes a church, a botanical garden, a zoo, a park and much more! St. Michael's Church is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Planten Un Blomen, a locally renowned botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hagenbeck Zoo, a breathtaking zoo, also available for your discovery today.

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 Hamburg's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Miller is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Copa Cabana Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Fontenay Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 6 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Hamburg, including a pier, a historical landmark, a haunted house, a museum, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at St. Pauli Piers. This locally renowned pier is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Elbe Tunnel located in Hamburg for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Hamburg Dungeon. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the haunted house, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Miniatur Wunderland. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this museum. Next up is St. Nikolai Memorial, a highly recommended monument.

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 delightful dinner at Edelcurry, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Deichgraf Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Tower Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Forest Bar - By Henn provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Ciu` Die Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hamburg and Hanstedt. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Hamburg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum. This instagrammable museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Hamburg Townhall, a must-visit city hall 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 Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an impressive concert hall. For a change of scene, check out Lüneburg Heath Wildlife Park, known for its awe-inspiring features.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Muenster. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule in Muenster by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Coeur D'Artichaut, acclaimed for its delectable modern french and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Spitzner, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Atelier is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Spooky's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Germany.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Duisburg. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Muenster, including a museum, a park, a marina, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This interesting museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord located in Muenster for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Duisburg Inner Harbour. Its respected features will captivate you. After the marina, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Duisburg Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the awe-inspiring features of this zoo.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cologne. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Savor the flavors at Limani, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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

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