13-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, France, and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Cologne, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Paris

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, 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 Laeken in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Laeken is brimming with adventures.

Catch St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels before the crowds roll in. This grand church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg, a must-visit public square in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Musée Magritte Museum, an often recommended museum. For a change of scene, check out Royal Palace Of Brussels, known for its picture-perfect features. We also recommend visiting Cinquantenaire. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Laeken. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Atomium, a spectacular monument that everyone visiting Laeken should see.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Des Amis, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Du Canal, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Little Delirium provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Bruges in Belgium, 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 Bruges. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Bruges and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bruges beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Minnewaterpark, an up-and-coming park known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Church Of Our Lady, an often recommended church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug) and uncover the details of this majestic historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Groeninge, an underrated neighborhood. For your last stop, consider Belfry Of Bruges, an UNESCO world heritage-listed monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bruges. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium in a new light.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Het Visioen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at t'Lammetje. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bruges tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Groot Vlaenderen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bauhaus Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, 't Brugs Beertje is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Ghent in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, your home for 1 night.

Ghent’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bruges behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. Ghent welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Gravensteen, a locally renowned castle in Ghent. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Belfry Of Ghent is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most awe-inspiring monument in the region.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Ghent’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 Ghent 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 Maste Bvba, a top-rated dining destination in Ghent. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Godot, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Patrick Foley's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ghent this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at De Geus Van Gent, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Alchemist offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Ghent. Hot Club Gent is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ghent, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Antwerp. This drive usually takes around 55 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Antwerp Zoo and explore the gorgeous features. Next, make your way to Rubenshuis, another highlight in Antwerp. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, a romantic church.

Nearby, you will also find Brabo's Monument. This beloved monument is a top place to see in the area.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Antwerp. 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 Aspen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, De Zeven Schaken offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Graanmarkt 13 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Antwerp.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hopper, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dogma provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Basil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cologne, Germany. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

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 Lindt Chocolate Museum, a notable museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Museum Ludwig, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Cologne Cathedral, a historic church and the perfect final attraction in Cologne.

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

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Cologne's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the night falls in Cologne, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, France, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Frankfurt in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Frankfurt where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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

Palmengarten is a popular botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its serene features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Next, stop by Iron Footbridge, a romantic monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Römerberg, a grand and truly unique public square. End your sightseeing at Goethe House, a curiosity-inducing museum that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Frankfurt. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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 Frankfurt.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Im Herzen Afrikas, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Gute Stute, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gleis 25 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Heidelberg 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt and set your GPS to Heidelberg. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Heidelberg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Heidelberg Castle, a spectacular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kornmarkt and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Heidelberger Marktplatz, an underrated public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Old Bridge Heidelberg, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Philosophers’ Way, an eye-catching place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Heidelberg. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Heidelberg’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Belgium, France, and Germany.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Heidelberg.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Sonder Bar (pinte), the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Bar Goodfellas provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Heidelberg 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!

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Strasbourg.

When you’ve had your share of Heidelberg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Strasbourg, France. Your travel time is around 1 hour 44 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parc De L'orangerie. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Palais Du Rhin. This up-and-coming palace is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Barrage Vauban, a beloved monument. Conclude your sightseeing at Petite France, known for its romantic features.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Strasbourg'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.

Savor the flavors at Le Baeckeoffe d'Alsace, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Blue Moon Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zehnerglock. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Strasbourg tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Canapé Queer Bar Strasbourg, known for its inviting atmosphere. La Mandragore is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Local provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, France, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Paris in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Paris, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Strasbourg to Paris may take around 4 hours 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paris, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Jardin Du Luxembourg, a famous park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Tuileries Garden, where you can soak in the remarkable surroundings.

Next, explore Notre-dame De Paris, yet another well-known place to see in the area.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Paris’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, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Paris. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mumi, 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 Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, 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 L'Imprévu Café, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café De Paris V, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dirty Dick. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Little Red Door, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 11 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Montmartre, a must-see neighborhood in Paris. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Champs-Élysées, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Whatever your travel style is, Eiffel Tower is an essential stop in Paris. This wondrous monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Arc De Triomphe, a history-steeped monument, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Louvre Museum, a wondrous museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the iconic Sacré-cœur.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of France's delectable cuisine at one of Paris'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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Boucan for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mamie Paris is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

On day 12 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Versailles in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Versailles. This drive usually takes around 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Versailles Cathedral, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Versailles should see. Next, head to Palace Of Versailles. This symbolic palace is one of the most iconic attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Hall Of Mirrors, a romantic palace popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Villa Lorraine, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Marmiton, a popular restaurant in Brussels. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Bistro - Porte de Hal, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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!