12-Day Road Trip in Belgium, France, and Germany from Brussels to Cologne, Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, Metz, and Paris

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium, France, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Brussels for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brussels in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Something that makes Brussels the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding urban park, Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,963 visitors.

The famous Choco-story Brussels is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Brussels's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,312 travelers have rated this incredible chocolate museum and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Brussels is also home to the extraordinary Grand-place, which boasts a 4.7 out of 5 star rating in 151,717 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 38,953 reviews, a visit to this wonderful shopping mall and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

When you’ve had your share of Brussels, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laeken. Your travel time is around 20 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Laeken is the magnificent Atomium. Around 91,642 visitors have rated this excellent history museum and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Brussels. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Brussels by booking a table at Barge. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of organic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, celebrated for its delectable modern, and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Bozar Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french, and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Des Amis, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Du Canal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Delirium. 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, France, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Brussels to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Brussels in Belgium, and Brühl in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated church and attraction in Brussels — St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. About 19,282 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Brussels Park is another top sight in Brussels that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved urban park in the area, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,495 visitors.

Cinquantenaire is a spectacular urban park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Brussels, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 enchanted visitors.

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brühl, Germany. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 9 min. When you arrive in Brühl, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brühl is the magnificent Phantasialand. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 1,750,000 travelers from across the world. Around 91,824 visitors have rated this excellent amusement park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Cologne. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Le Moissonnier Bistro delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious french, and seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ox & Klee, acclaimed for its delectable modern, and creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Cologne in Germany, 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.

Something that makes Cologne the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding catholic cathedral, Cologne Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors and gets around 5,000,000 visits every year.

The famous Old Market is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Cologne's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 12,935 travelers have rated this incredible sightseeing destination and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Cologne is also home to the extraordinary Lindt Chocolate Museum, which boasts a 4.3 out of 5 star rating in 37,446 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Cologne Zoological Garden. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 30,676 reviews, a visit to this wonderful zoo and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Heidelberg of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Heidelberg. 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, France, and Germany.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Heidelberg.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sonder Bar (pinte), another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the night falls in Heidelberg, 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.

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, France, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Karlsruhe, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Old Bridge Heidelberg is a travelers’ favorite in Heidelberg, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 visitors.

In Heidelberg, don’t miss Heidelberg Castle, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,486 reviews.

Stuttgart’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Heidelberg behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 37 min. Stuttgart welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated automobile museum and attraction in Stuttgart — Mercedes-benz Museum. About 43,234 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Schloßplatz is another top sight in Stuttgart that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved square in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 41,914 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Karlsruhe.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium, France, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Karlsruhe. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Karlsruhe by booking a table at Bistro Margarete, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional regional menu. For a different flavor experience, head to sein, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit TAWA YAMA FINE, a local gem known for its delightful modern, and international cuisine in Karlsruhe. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Phono Craftbeer Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Electric Eel, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Jean-claude Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Karlsruhe as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and 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 to see in Strasbourg in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Metz, where you will stay for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Strasbourg, France. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Strasbourg today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,268 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Petit Train Touristique De Strasbourg. This incredible attraction and sightseeing destination holds an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, thanks to 331 visitors.

According to travelers in Strasbourg, the extraordinary Place Du Château is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 652 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible square, Place Kléber. Up to 11,963 visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular park, Parc De L'orangerie. This attraction is rated an average 4.6 out of 5 stars among 15,139 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Metz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Metz. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Metz's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at CHEZ BAPTISTE, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Buffalo Grill Metz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Aloyau. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Metz.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Les Berthom Metz, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Le Fo'rhum. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Aux Paraiges, another top-rated place in the area.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

Wake up and see what day 8 of your great European road trip in Belgium, France, and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Paris for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Musée D'orsay is a travelers’ favorite in Paris, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 71,115 visitors. More than 3,651,616 people visit this extraordinary art museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Paris, don’t miss Louvre Museum, a great art museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 260,788 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 2,825,000 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Paris off your list when you visit the wonderful Sainte Chapelle. This popular sight is an outstanding chapel, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Notre-dame De Paris. This catholic cathedral and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 reviews. It’s estimated that around 12,000,000 people come to admire it every year.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Sens Unique offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Caveau de l'isle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Prescription Cocktail Club offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Le Boucan is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mamie Paris is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium, France, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Paris to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Day 9 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Paris, including the outstanding Centre Georges Pompidou. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 55,213 reviews and welcoming more than 3,273,867 visitors each year, this fascinating art museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Paris is also home to the captivating Pont Alexandre Iii, a local deck arch bridge considered one of the highlights of the city. About 27,899 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Place De La Concorde is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Paris. This extraordinary square and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 54,229 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Tuileries Garden will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing garden and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 92,172 reviews.

Soak in Paris's rich culture at the fantastic Palais Garnier. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Paris is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,053 visitor reviews.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Paris. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Sherry Butt, known for its lively atmosphere. The Highlander is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Le Sully offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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!

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium, France, and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Paris in France. With 1 night left in Paris, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One place travelers keep coming back to in Paris is the magnificent Jardin Des Plantes. Around 40,461 visitors have rated this excellent botanical garden and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Panthéon on this leg of your adventure in France. This attraction is a well-known mausoleum that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 43,649 travelers.

The remarkable Jardin Du Luxembourg is known to be one of the best places to visit in Paris, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 94,043 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Paris by exploring the captivating Arc De Triomphe, which draws the attention of nearly 2,743,823 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 193,235 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Paris exploration list!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Versailles, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Paris to Versailles may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Versailles, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Versailles is the fantastic Palace Of Versailles, attracting around 4,741,758 visitors every year. As an appreciated château and local gem in the area, Palace Of Versailles has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 119,665 reviews.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium, France, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Paris. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Guy Savoy, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Saint James Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Klein Holland. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Tiger offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The 46 Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!