5-Day Germany Road Trip from Hanover traveling west to Kassel and Düsseldorf

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
5 days & 4 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
4 nights included
Car rental
5 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Explore the best of Germany on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Hanover, Laatzen, Kassel, Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne. This road trip itinerary in Germany seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Hanover, 1 night in Kassel, and 1 night in Düsseldorf. 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 Hanover, 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. Cologne Cathedral and Cologne Zoological Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Hanover, Laatzen, Kassel, Essen, Düsseldorf, and Cologne, 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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Included

Hotel, 4 nights
Rental car, 5 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Essen - city in GermanyEssen
Photo of aerial view of the city ,Rheinturm and Media Harbour district in Dusseldorf city in Germany.Dusseldorf / 1 night
Cologne Aerial view with trains move on a bridge over the Rhine River on which cargo barges and passenger ships ply. Majestic Cologne Cathedral in the background.Cologne
Kassel - city in GermanyKassel / 1 night
Photo of panorama of New City Hall in Hannover in a beautiful summer day, Germany.Hanover / 2 nights

Map

Attractions

Photo of Cologne Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, Germany.Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Zoological Garden, Riehl, Nippes, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyCologne Zoological Garden
Erlebnis-Zoo HannoverHanover Zoo
UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein, Stoppenberg, Stadtbezirk VI, Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyUNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
photo of miew of Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, Kassel, GermanyBergpark Wilhelmshöhe
Herrenhausen Gardens, Herrenhausen, Hanover, Region Hannover, Lower Saxony, GermanyHerrenhäuser Gärten
Old Market, Altstadt-Nord, Innenstadt, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyOld Market
Hercules monument, Bad Wilhelmshöhe, Kassel, Hesse, GermanyHercules monument, Kassel
Markthalle, Centre, Hanover, Region Hannover, Lower Saxony, GermanyMarkthalle
photo of view of Rhine Garden Sculpture, Cologne, Germany.Rhine Garden Sculpture
Hanover Fairground, R-59418, R-51477, R-62771Hanover Fairground
Berggarten HannoverBerggarten
Masch Park, Centre, Hanover, Region Hannover, Lower Saxony, GermanyMaschpark
Eilenriede City ParkEilenriede
Shaft XII
Löwenburg, Bad Wilhelmshöhe, Kassel, Hesse, GermanyLöwenburg

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Hanover - arrival day

  • Hanover - Arrival day
  • More
  • Maschpark
  • More

Say hello to Hanover! Your exciting road trip through Germany is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Hanover for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Hanover is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Hanover. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Meteora while you’re in Hanover. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 2,756 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Hanover is Beef and Reef. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 816 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Hanover, enjoy Bavarium Hannover’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 4,434 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Dublin Inn, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Dublin Inn is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,742 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals at Teestübchen Café & Teehandel. Around 2,361 customers have rated their experience at Teestübchen Café & Teehandel an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

6 Sinne Sky Bar and Restaurant also belongs to the list of the best bars in the Hanover, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,028 bar-goers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Germany!

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Experiences

Day 2

Day 2 – Hanover, Laatzen, and Kassel

  • Hanover
  • Kassel
  • More

Drive 180 km, 3 hours 2 min

  • Markthalle
  • Berggarten
  • Herrenhäuser Gärten
  • Hanover Zoo
  • Hanover Fairground
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Germany. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Hanover, Laatzen, and Kassel, 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 Kassel. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Markthalle Hannover. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hanover, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,944 visitors.

Berggarten is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,252 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Herrenhausen Gardens. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 18,866 reviews.

Hanover Zoo is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a zoo rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 26,767 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Hanover, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laatzen. Your travel time is around 14 min.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Kassel. Kassel offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kassel.

Make a reservation at El Erni, a popular dining spot in Kassel. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,367 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at MarrakecH while indulging in the charm of Kassel. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, cherished by 763 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Eckstein, a treasured establishment in Kassel. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,211 satisfied guests.

An excellent example is Café Hurricane e. K. , which has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,308 customers.

Another of the best bars you should consider going to is Eberts. This bar offers a selection of great meals and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,187 customers.

Locals also enjoy denkMAHL, and you might too. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,041 customers, an after-dinner drink at denkMAHL is the perfect way to end this day.

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

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Experiences

Day 3

Day 3 – Essen and Düsseldorf

  • Essen
  • Kassel
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 240 km, 4 hours 7 min

  • Löwenburg
  • Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe
  • Hercules monument, Kassel
  • Shaft XII
  • UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein
  • More

On day 3 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 Kassel, Essen, and Düsseldorf. In the evening, you’ll end up in Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Löwenburg. This maison de plaisance is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,424 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe. This english garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,553 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Hercules monument, Kassel. This monument has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,234 visitors.

Essen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kassel behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 14 min. Essen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Shaft XII. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,311 visitors.

UNESCO-Welterbe Zollverein is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,866 visitors.

Set your GPS to Düsseldorf and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Düsseldorf beckons with new experiences!

At the end of the day, you will drive to Düsseldorf, 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 Düsseldorf. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Reserve a table at Pink Pepper, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Düsseldorf. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious modern offering makes it a crowd favorite. Pink Pepper is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Düsseldorf is Yoshi by Nagaya, which critics have graced with 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its japanese and sushi menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Yoshi by Nagaya’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, Le Flair. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Düsseldorf for its appetizing selection of food, including its french and contemporary courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

Make your way to Palito Restaurant Düsseldorf. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,493 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at Im Goldenen Kessel? This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 2,336 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is o’reilly’s Irish Pub & Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,111 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Germany!

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Experiences

Day 4

Day 4 – Cologne and Hanover

  • Cologne
  • Hanover
  • More

Drive 334 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Old Market
  • Rhine Garden Sculpture
  • Cologne Zoological Garden
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Germany, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Cologne and Hanover. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Hanover. Hanover will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Cologne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cologne beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cologne Cathedral. This catholic cathedral typically receives around 5,000,000 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 69,905 reviews.

Continue your journey at Old Market. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,740 travelers from near and far.

Cologne is also the home of Rhine Garden Sculpture. This fountain has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,663 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Cologne Zoological Garden. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,118 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Hanover. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 5 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hanover, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Al-dar, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,837 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at BLOCK HOUSE Am Aegi while in Hanover. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,797 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Cafe Mezzo, a favorite in Hanover. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,998 discerning guests.

After your meal, consider going for a drink to celebrate this wonderful night in Germany. One of the best bars in the city is The Irish Pub. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 929 customers.

To gain one of the best bar experiences in Hanover, we recommend the cocktails at Sternwarte. This bar has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 273 customers and is an excellent place to make local friends.

Another of the best spots to experience the nightlife scene in Hanover is Quarks Bar Hannover. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 107 customers.

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

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Experiences

Day 5

Day 5 – Hanover - departure day

  • Hanover - Departure day
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  • Eilenriede
  • More

Day 5 of your road trip in Germany is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Hanover before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Hanover’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Germany. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Hanover. 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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Experiences

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