One-Week Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Hanover, Hamburg, and Bremen

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cologne for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This popular museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Cologne Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Cologne Zoological Garden, one of the most notable places to see in Cologne. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Rheinpark. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this park offers.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Cologne's bustling shopping hub, Schildergasse. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Schildergasse offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater 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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will explore Oberhausen and Hamm, 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cologne, including a museum, an aquarium, and a park. Start your adventure at Gasometer Oberhausen. This well-known museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Sea Life Oberhausen located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Maximilianpark Hamm. Its breathtaking features will captivate you.

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 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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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 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 Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views in Hamburg. Begin your sightseeing with Hamburg Dungeon. This captivating haunted house is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Miniatur Wunderland, 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 St. Michael's Church. This notable church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Elbe Tunnel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. St. Pauli Piers is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 Hamburg. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, a highly-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're eager to try something different, consider Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at NOM vietnamese fusion food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Miller, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Copa Cabana Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Fontenay Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 Bremen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Hamburg Townhall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning city hall before continuing your journey. Elbe Philharmonic Hall is your next stop. This famous concert hall 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 Planten Un Blomen. This romantic botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Stadtpark and Hagenbeck Zoo.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bremen. Bremen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bremen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Robben, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Dorint City-Hotel Bremen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Market Hall Eight Bremen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bremen.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rosso Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Red Rock is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sammy`s Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bremen, including a museum, a park, and a zoo. Start your day at Unesco-welterbe Zollverein. This UNESCO world heritage-designated museum is a captivating place to see in Bremen. Then, wander over to Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. If standout sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Duisburg Zoo. This visually striking zoo is a favorite among visitors.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

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