12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hanover to Leipzig, Berlin, Hamburg, Dortmund, and Cologne and surrounding area

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Hanover, 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 Leipzig. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, picturesque spots, and wallet-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Markthalle Hannover. This often recommended food market is a visually striking place to see in Hanover. Continue your discovery at Ballhofplatz, a respected public square with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hanover, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Herrenhausen Gardens. This interesting botanical garden offers a respected encounter with Hanover. Next, make your way to Hanover Zoo to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hanover.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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

Continue your lively evening at Mephisto, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Brick's Der Cocktail is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Skala ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring Berlin. You have 3 nights left in Berlin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make sure to visit Mitte, a popular neighborhood in Berlin. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Berlin is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Brandenburg Gate, a world-famous monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Memorial To The Murdered Jews Of Europe, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Potsdamer Platz. This public square is one of the city’s most widely recognized 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 Zoological Garden.

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 Berlin, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz, an iconic dining spot in Berlin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nante-Eck | Restaurant Berlin Mitte, a popular restaurant in Berlin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berlin TV Tower, a hidden gem nestled in Berlin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sharlie Cheen Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Berlin Icebar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Curtain Club, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Berlin. You’ll stay in Berlin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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.

Berlin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a street art, a historical landmark, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the extraordinary East Side Gallery and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Checkpoint Charlie, a heritage-rich historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Topography Of Terror, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known German Museum Of Technology.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Booze Bar Berlin, known for its inviting atmosphere. Victoria Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Scandic Berlin Potsdamer Platz provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Berlin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Berlin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Kurfürstendamm, a must-see street in Berlin. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Berlin. Begin your sightseeing with Kaiser-wilhelm-gedächtniskirche. This popular church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Siegessäule, 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 Großer Tiergarten. This captivating park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Berlin Wall Memorial, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 Berlin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Curry 61, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gasthaus Krombach offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss SOY. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Berlin.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Franken Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mikkeller Berlin offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Limonadier Cocktailbar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Berlin. 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.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Berlin Cathedral. This interesting church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Fernsehturm Berlin, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Alexanderplatz, one of the most timeless places to see in Berlin. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Mauerpark. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this park offers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Hamburg. Hamburg 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 Hamburg's best restaurants.

Start 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Scandic Hamburg Emporio provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hamburg, including a concert hall, a museum, a church, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This impressive concert hall is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Miniatur Wunderland, which may be one of the most picture-perfect 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 St. Michael's Church, a locally renowned church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Planten Un Blomen and Stadtpark.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Essen and Brühl. 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dortmund. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum and an amusement park. Begin your adventure at Red Dot Design Museum. This is an up-and-coming museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Shaft Xii, a beloved museum in Dortmund.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Phantasialand, another of the city’s top-rated attractions.

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.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local gem known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

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.

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne 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 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 picturesque spots. Start at Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church in the city. Then, head to Old Market and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned visually striking spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Hanover. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Hanover by reserving a table at Handwerk. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Jante, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Votum, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Hanover.

Keep the evening going at Altstadt-treff, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to My Way Cocktailbar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Germany!