7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bremen to Hamburg, Berlin, Hanover, and Essen and surrounding area

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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.
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
Germany Berlin Skyline
Photo of aerial view of Berlin skyline with famous TV tower at Alexanderplatz at sunset, Germany.
beautiful view of historic Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) at famous Museumsinsel (Museum Island) with excursion boat on Spree river in beautiful sunset in summer, Berlin.
Photo of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin at sunrise, Germany.
Photo of museum island in spring, Berlin, Germany.
Photo of Oberbaumbruecke Berlin Summer with Reflection and Clouds.
Photo of the famous reichstag building in berlin.
Photo of stone elephants and the arch on the entrance to the Berlin Zoological Garden, Germany.
Altes Museum German Old Museum on Museum Island,Mitte.Berlin,Germany
Blossoming chestnut trees in Tiergarten Berlin , Germany.
Photo of panoramic view of famous Gendarmenmarkt square with Berlin Concert Hall and German Cathedral.
photo of view of Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) on Museum island and Spree river at sunset, Germany
photo of view of Oberbaumbrücke, Bridge in Berlin, Germany.
photo of view of Berlin, Germany - 01. March 2023 the skyline of berlin during sunset
photo of view of Bode museum on Museum island and Spree river, Berlin, 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  view of View over Kettwig, Essen, Germany.
city Essen in germany
photo of view of Essen, Germany.
photo  of view of  View of Essen-Kettwig on the river Ruhr, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
photo  of view of  Essen, Germany. Industrial heritage of Ruhr region. Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
photo  of view of  The historical centre of Essen Kettwig at the Ruhr river in the evening sun, Germany.
photo  of view of  Beautiful city park in Essen Germany.
photo  of view of  The historical centre of Essen Kettwig at the Ruhr river, Germany.
photo  of view of  Old city of Essen, Germany.
photo  of view of  Historic green railway bridge spanning over Ruhr river in Essen-Kettwig Germany. Red multiple unit train from Düsseldorf to Essen passing steel construction with reflection on a rainy summer evening.
photo  of view of  Colliery, Bonifacius in Essen, Germany.
photo  of view of  Panorama of the river Ruhr and lake Baldeney in Essen, Germany.
photo  of view of  Essen, Germany - December 13, 2022: Christmas atmosphere at the open xmas market. Celebrating Xmas holidays. Lights, carousel, small houses, toys and decorations at fair in European city or town
photo  of view of  Essen, Germany. Industrial heritage of Ruhr region Zollverein. Spring time cherry blossoms.
photo  of view of  Skyline of city Essen in germany.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Germany. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Bremen, 1 night in Hamburg, 1 night in Berlin, 1 night in Hanover, and 1 night in Essen. 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 Bremen, 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. Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland, learn more about the unique Elbe Philharmonic Hall, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Checkpoint Charlie.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bremen, Hamburg, Berlin, Hanover, Duisburg, Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Nordkirchen, 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
Schnoor
Rhododendron-Park BremenBremenTown Musicians of BremenBremen CathedralUniversum Science Center
Planten un BlomenSt. Pauli PiersElbe TunnelElbphilharmonieMiniatur Wunderland
AlexanderplatzEast Side GalleryCheckpoint CharlieBrandenburg GateBerlin Zoological Garden
Hanover ZooHerrenhäuser GärtenLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg Zoo
LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - BorbeckUNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinNordstern ParkSchloss Nordkirchen
Bürgerpark

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bremen - Arrival day
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  • Schnoor
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Welcome to Bremen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Germany! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bremen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bremen. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Robben, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dorint City-Hotel Bremen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Market Hall Eight Bremen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bremen.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Rosso Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Red Rock is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Sammy`s Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bremen
  • Hamburg
  • More

Drive 142 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Rhododendron-Park Bremen
  • Bremen
  • Town Musicians of Bremen
  • Bremen Cathedral
  • Universum Science Center
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bremen. 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 1 night.

Today's adventure in Bremen promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Rhododendron-park Bremen. This eye-catching botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Bremen, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Bremen Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Universum Science Center, a locally appreciated science center, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, The Table Kevin Fehling delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative and international cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Haerlin, acclaimed for its delectable creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative and modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Hamburg
  • Berlin
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Drive 291 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Planten un Blomen
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • More

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Planten Un Blomen. This notable botanical garden is an eye-catching place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at St. Pauli Piers, a romantic pier with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hamburg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Elbe Tunnel. This locally renowned historical landmark offers a historic encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Elbe Philharmonic Hall to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Miniatur Wunderland, a top-rated museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hamburg.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Berlin by reserving a table at Rutz. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern and creative cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, renowned for its delectable creative 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 FACIL, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative and contemporary 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 Berlin.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Monkey Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Saint Jean offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Green Door Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Berlin
  • Hanover
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Drive 296 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Alexanderplatz
  • East Side Gallery
  • Checkpoint Charlie
  • Brandenburg Gate
  • Berlin Zoological Garden
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 Hanover. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Berlin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a street art, a historical landmark, a monument, a zoo and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the iconic Alexanderplatz and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, East Side Gallery, a historic street art that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Checkpoint Charlie, one of the city’s most spectacular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the wondrous Brandenburg Gate. When you're finished at the monument, Berlin Zoological Garden awaits your visit. This zoo is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.

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

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.

Begin 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Seña, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sternwarte offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Hanover. Dormero Hotel Hannover is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

  • Hanover
  • Essen
  • More

Drive 297 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Hanover Zoo
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hanover and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Essen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Hanover, including a zoo, a botanical garden, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Hanover Zoo. This captivating zoo is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Herrenhausen Gardens, which may be one of the most romantic 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 Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord, a popular park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Duisburg Zoo.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Essen by booking a table at Hannappel. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern and classic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Schote, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Kettner's Kamota, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing austrian and french contemporary menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Südrock Rock Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gentlem, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Diamond Cocktail Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

  • Essen
  • Bremen
  • More

Drive 274 km, 4 hours 1 min

  • LaserZone LaserTag Essen West - Borbeck
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Nordstern Park
  • Schloss Nordkirchen
  • More

On day 6 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 Essen, Gelsenkirchen, and Nordkirchen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bremen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Essen covers several incredible sights, including a laser tag arena, a museum, a park, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Laserzone Lasertag Essen West - Borbeck. This increasingly popular laser tag arena is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed wonders of Unesco-welterbe Zollverein, a must-see 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 Nordstern Park. This curiosity-inducing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Schloss Nordkirchen, where you can take in respected features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Jürgenshof is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bremen tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Wohnzimmer Bremen, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of König Lounge, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Cottons Pub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bremen - Departure day
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  • Bürgerpark
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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 Bremen 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, we recommend visiting Bürgerpark, an instagrammable park before you head out.

Maximize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Bremen’s shopping center, the lively Waterfront Bremen. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Germany.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Bolero Schlachte, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bremen. 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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