One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Hamburg traveling west to Muenster, Cologne, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Hanover

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 Hamburg, 1 night in Muenster, 1 night in Cologne, 1 night in Heidelberg, 1 night in Frankfurt, and 1 night in Hanover. 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 Hamburg, 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. Miniatur Wunderland and Phantasialand are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Elbe Philharmonic Hall, learn more about the unique Cologne Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Heidelberg Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hamburg, Muenster, Essen, Duisburg, Cologne, Brühl, Heidelberg, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Kassel, Hanover, and Wolterdingen, 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
Planten un Blomen
Hamburg DungeonMiniatur WunderlandElbphilharmonieSt. Pauli PiersElbe Tunnel
UNESCO-Welterbe ZollvereinLandschaftspark Duisburg-NordDuisburg ZooTiger & Turtle
Cologne CathedralCologne Chocolate MuseumPhantasialand
Heidelberg PalaceMercedes-Benz MuseumSchlossplatz
RömerbergIron FootbridgePalmengarten FrankfurtKarlsaue
MarkthalleHerrenhäuser GärtenHeide Park
Mönckebergstraße

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Hamburg - Arrival day
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  • Planten un Blomen
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Welcome to Hamburg, 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 Hamburg's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Hamburg 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 Planten Un Blomen, 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 Hamburg. 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 Hamburg, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, SuRolls offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, bona'me is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Scandic Hamburg Emporio, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Germany!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Hamburg
  • Münster
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Drive 287 km, 3 hours 48 min

  • Hamburg Dungeon
  • Miniatur Wunderland
  • Elbphilharmonie
  • St. Pauli Piers
  • Elbe Tunnel
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Germany. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Muenster. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences await you in Hamburg on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating haunted house, Hamburg Dungeon. Afterward, continue to Miniatur Wunderland, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Hamburg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Elbe Philharmonic Hall. This astonishing concert hall is an essential stop. Following that, head to St. Pauli Piers, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Elbe Tunnel, an interesting historical landmark in the city.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Muenster. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at BOK Restaurant Brust oder Keule, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Coeur D'Artichaut is one of the best restaurants for modern french and creative cuisine in Muenster. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Spitzner. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Atelier offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Muenster. Spooky's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Münster
  • Cologne
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
  • Duisburg Zoo
  • Tiger & Turtle
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Essen and Duisburg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Muenster on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Unesco-welterbe Zollverein is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord is your next stop. This captivating park is one of the best-rated sights in Muenster.

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 Duisburg Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Tiger & Turtle.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cologne by booking a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Heidelberg
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Drive 276 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Phantasialand
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Cologne and Brühl, 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 Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Cologne Cathedral, a famous church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Lindt Chocolate Museum, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Phantasialand. This amusement park is one of the city’s most extraordinary spots.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Heidelberg.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Sonder Bar (pinte), a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café Bar Goodfellas provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Heidelberg and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Germany!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Heidelberg
  • Frankfurt
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Drive 336 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Mercedes-Benz Museum
  • Schlossplatz
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On day 5 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 Heidelberg and Stuttgart. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Heidelberg’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Heidelberg Castle. This enchanting castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Mercedes-benz Museum, a must-visit museum 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 Schloßplatz, a well-known public square.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Frankfurt, 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 Frankfurt, 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Frankfurt by booking a table at Gustav, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Frankfurt, Lafleur shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french and creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Erno's Bistro is known as a top local spot for its delicious classic french and modern cuisine in Frankfurt. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Gute Stute, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Gleis 25 offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Frankfurt
  • Hanover
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Drive 362 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Römerberg
  • Iron Footbridge
  • Palmengarten Frankfurt
  • Karlsaue
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Germany. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Frankfurt and Kassel. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Frankfurt. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a public square, a monument, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Römerberg. This is a notable public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Iron Footbridge, a notable monument in Frankfurt.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Palmengarten. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Karlsaue, another of the city’s beloved attractions.

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.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Hanover by securing a reservation at Handwerk. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern and creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Jante, renowned for its delicious creative and modern dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Votum, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering creative and modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Hanover
  • Hamburg
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Drive 173 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Markthalle
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Heide Park
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Hanover and Wolterdingen. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hamburg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. Start at the beloved Markthalle Hannover, an eye-catching food market in Hanover. Next, go to Herrenhausen Gardens.

After visiting Markthalle Hannover and Herrenhausen Gardens, have a stroll along Hanover's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Heide Park. This stunning amusement park offers a unique experience.

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

As 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at The Table Kevin Fehling in Hamburg by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, The Table Kevin Fehling offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative and international menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Haerlin, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative french and classic 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 100/200 Kitchen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative and modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Miller, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Copa Cabana Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Fontenay Bar, 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.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Hamburg - Departure day
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  • Mönckebergstraße
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Day 8 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hamburg before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Mönckebergstraße, a street that captures the true essence of Hamburg. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Hamburg's best shopping area, Alsterhaus. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Germany. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Hamburg. 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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