12-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cologne traveling north to Bielefeld, Hamburg, and Hanover

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Germany includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Cologne. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bielefeld, where you'll spend 2 nights.

No visit to Cologne is complete without Lindt Chocolate Museum. This well-known museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cologne Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cologne Zoological Garden. This well-known zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Japanese Garden Leverkusen, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bielefeld, 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 Bielefeld. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Have a fantastic dining experience at GlückundSeligkeit, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, New Orleans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Knigge is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bielefeld.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Die Villa, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Three Sixty Bielefeld. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cutie, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Bielefeld has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Bielefeld.

Make a stop at Heimat-tierpark Olderdissen. This popular zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Botanical Garden located in Bielefeld for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Sparrenberg Castle. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Laserzone Lasertag Bielefeld. Next up is Obersee, a highly recommended lake.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bielefeld. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Nichtschwimmer, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? BRASSERIE Bielefeld offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Osteria Bielefeld. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bielefeld.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Extra Blues Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Wunderbar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Faces Lounge & Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Say good night to Bielefeld and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Germany!

Day 5 of your road trip across Germany promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Hamburg. You have 3 nights left in Hamburg. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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.

Your adventure in Hamburg is only getting started when you visit St. Pauli Piers, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Elbe Tunnel. This interesting historical landmark is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Hamburg's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Panoptikum. This visually striking wax museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. St. Michael's Church is also worth visiting, along with Elbe Philharmonic Hall. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Brodersen Hamburg, an iconic dining spot in Hamburg. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, a popular restaurant in Hamburg. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of NOM vietnamese fusion food, a hidden gem nestled in Hamburg. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Miller, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Copa Cabana Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Fontenay Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Hamburg. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 2 nights.

Chocoversum - Hamburgs Schokoladenmuseum makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating museum is an instagrammable place to see in Hamburg. Continue your discovery at Hamburg Dungeon, an eye-catching haunted house 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 Miniatur Wunderland. This famous museum offers a photogenic encounter with Hamburg. Next, make your way to Hagenbeck 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 Hamburg.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Hamburg's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Edelcurry, a top-rated dining destination in Hamburg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Deichgraf Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Hamburg this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tower Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Bar - By Henn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Ciu` Die Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cologne. You’ll stay in Hamburg for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Visiting St. Nikolai Memorial is always a good idea. This intriguing monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Hamburg Townhall, a must-see city hall 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 Hamburger Kunsthalle. This locally appreciated art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Planten Un Blomen, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Stadtpark These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Hamburg's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brücke 10, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Shiso Burger Hamburg? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Im Sprinkenhof as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Hamburg.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Meyer Lansky's, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Chug Club offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Hanover has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Hanover.

Hanover is brimming with adventures.

Hanover Zoo brings Hanover's character to life. This stunning zoo is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Eilenriede, another serene attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Markthalle Hannover, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Market Church. This grand church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Germany. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Hanover is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hanover.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Guru, a popular restaurant in Hanover. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hanover at Dublin Inn, 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 Resso’s Café | Restaurant | Lebenskultur. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Hanover tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Altstadt-treff, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. My Way Cocktailbar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Hanover and Laatzen. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Hanover, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the interesting Herrenhausen Gardens and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Berggarten, a stunning botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Sea Life Hannover, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Masch Park.

Laatzen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hanover behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Laatzen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hanover Fairground, a locally appreciated exposition center in Laatzen.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hanover.

Hanover is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Hanover.

Make sure to reserve a table at Masa Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Hanover. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of BLOCK HOUSE Am Thielenplatz, a popular restaurant in Hanover. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt, Hannover Friesenstraße, a hidden gem nestled in Hanover. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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