10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Cologne

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Laeken in Belgium. With 5 nights left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Laeken on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Sablon/Zavel, a popular neighborhood in Laeken. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Brussels Park. This stunning park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. After exploring the shopping mall, head to Grand-place. This iconic public square is a highlight in Brussels.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Laeken. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Atomium, an astonishing monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Brussels. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Lobster House, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Des Amis offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Du Canal is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Little Delirium is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 3 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Ghent, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Ghent in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 4 nights more.

Ghent is brimming with adventures. Sint-Baafsplein is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Ghent. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ghent. This car ride takes around 58 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Saint Bavo's Cathedral and explore the awe-inspiring features. Next, make your way to Belfry Of Ghent, another highlight in Ghent. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Saint Nicholas' Church, a breathtaking church.

Nearby, you will also find Sint-michielsbrug. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Gravensteen, a picture-perfect castle that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Brussels's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa Lorraine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Marmiton offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at La Reserve, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Manneken Pis Cafe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Addict Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Brussels to the fullest!

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bruges in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 3 nights in the city later today.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bruges, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Bruges may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bruges, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bruges is Bruges City Hall, a worthwhile city hall that draws attention for its symbolic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Burg, a grand public square that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Belfry Of Bruges, a captivating monument that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Sint-salvatorskathedraal, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Church Of Our Lady, an enchanting church and the perfect final attraction in Bruges.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pasta Divina, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Brussels off Grand Place offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Au Soleil. , which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Au Brasseur is another popular option for a drink or two.

As the night falls in Brussels, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Antwerp in Belgium. With 2 nights left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set aside time today to explore Zurenborg, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Meir, a street offering another perspective on the city.

Antwerp welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Museum Aan De Stroom, a notable museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Rubenshuis, yet another often recommended place to see in the area.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Belgium's delectable cuisine at one of Brussels's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel Le Plaza Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Greet day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Aachen in Germany. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Aachen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour. Upon reaching Aachen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Carolus Thermen is an increasingly popular spa we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Elisenbrunnen, a heritage-rich monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Kreislauf Des Geldes, a remarkable art installation. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Aachen Cathedral, a breathtaking and truly unique church. End your sightseeing at Katschhof, an up-and-coming public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Cologne boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Soul Bar Cologne after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Cologne in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 1 night.

Your adventure in Cologne is only getting started when you visit Old Market, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cologne Cathedral. This astonishing church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cologne's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Museum Ludwig. This heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Lindt Chocolate Museum is also worth visiting.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brussels’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Brussels boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brasserie de la ville, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider À l'Ombre de la Ville, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at La Porte Noire. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!