Two-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Antwerp, and Cologne

Greet day 2 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 Brussels in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Visiting Cinquantenaire is always a good idea. This locally renowned park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of Musée Magritte Museum, a must-see museum 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 Royal Palace Of Brussels. This captivating palace offers an enriching experience.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Laeken may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Laeken, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Laeken is Atomium, a widely recognized monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.

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.

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.

Keep the evening going at Bar Des Amis, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Du Canal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Delirium, 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 and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Brussels to the fullest!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Bruges in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, your home for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bruges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min.

Sint-salvatorskathedraal is a worthwhile church we recommend visiting today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Belfry Of Bruges, an enchanting monument that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a heritage-rich church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Bruges City Hall, a culturally significant and truly unique city hall. End your sightseeing at Burg, a beloved public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Bruges’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 and Germany.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vlaminck '14, an iconic dining spot in Bruges. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Het Visioen, a popular restaurant in Bruges. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of t'Lammetje, a hidden gem nestled in Bruges. 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 Groot Vlaenderen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bauhaus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Belgium and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Bruges for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Check out the often recommended neighborhood, Groeninge. Afterward, continue to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a historical landmark every traveler should visit. As you explore Bruges’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to De Halve Maan Brewery. This often recommended brewery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Minnewaterpark, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bruges’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bistro Den Amand, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, That's Toast is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Petite Aneth. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bruges tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at De Garre, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, 't Poatersgat offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Vintage. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the night falls in Bruges, 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 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. Bruges remains your base for 1 night more.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Sint-Baafsplein, a street that captures the true essence of Ghent. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bruges and set your GPS to Ghent. 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 50 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Gravensteen. Spend some time admiring the respected features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Ghent City Hall. This locally appreciated city hall is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Belfry Of Ghent. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a notable church.

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 and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bruges’s local cuisine.

Dine in style at Locàle by Kok au Vin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Punta Est boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Le Chef et Moi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bruges.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Beers Yesterday's World after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Hollandse Vismijn for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, De Stoepa is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium 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 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Bruges, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Antwerp. Your travel time is around 1 hour 27 min.

Savor the day by heading to Rubenshuis, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

Next, explore Groenplaats, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the public square, make time to go to Museum Plantin-moretus. This respected museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Brabo's Monument, a locally appreciated monument you won’t want to miss.

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

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 and Germany.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try De Zeven Schaken, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

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

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 7, you will wake up in Antwerp with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Antwerp before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Belgium and Germany.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Red Star Line Museum, a historic museum in Antwerp. Next, go to Museum Aan De Stroom.

After visiting Red Star Line Museum and Museum Aan De Stroom, have a stroll along Antwerp's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Antwerp Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo offers a unique experience.

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

Dine in style at Ciro's, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Het Pomphuis boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Antwerp.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Café Delux, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to 't Waagstuk. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Den Hopsack, 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Cologne where you'll spend 6 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

As you explore Cologne’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cologne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Antwerp to Cologne may take around 2 hours 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cologne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, head to Rhine Garden Sculpture. This underrated park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Museum Ludwig. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church. Conclude your sightseeing at Old Market, known for its enchanting features.

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

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 and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cologne’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne 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!

Day 9 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Cologne. Enjoy time off the road as you have 5 nights left in the city.

A visit to Schildergasse is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

To truly experience Cologne, make sure to drop by Cologne Zoological Garden. This captivating zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

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 Cologne.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne 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!

Wake up to day 10 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 Düsseldorf in Germany. With 4 nights left in Cologne, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Düsseldorf. This drive usually takes around 44 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Königsallee, a frequently visited street 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 Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen and admire its eye-catching features.

When you’re ready, continue to Hofgarten, an up-and-coming park beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Cologne. 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 lovely meal at Limani, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Suderman is an excellent place to start.

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

Greet day 11 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 3 nights in the city later today.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Aachen may take around 1 hour. Upon your arrival in Aachen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Carolus Thermen, a frequently visited spa that everyone visiting Aachen should see. Next, head to Elisenbrunnen. This history-steeped monument is one of the most increasingly popular attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Kreislauf Des Geldes, a noteworthy art installation popular among locals as well as travelers. Aachen Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this well-known church before you continue your journey.

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 Cologne.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe Riese Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bangkok Thai Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Servus Colonia Alpina is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne 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 12 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Liege, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Liege in Belgium. Cologne remains your base for 2 nights more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Liege, Belgium. This car ride takes around 1 hour 33 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Le Grand Curtius Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Montagne De Bueren, an often recommended monument.

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 St. Paul's Cathedral In Liege and uncover the details of this picture-perfect church. Make sure to also explore Parc De La Boverie, an underrated park.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Em Krützche, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at My Curry Wurst, 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 Délirium Café Cologne. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

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 to day 13 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 Jambes in Belgium. With 1 night left in Cologne, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Jambes is brimming with adventures.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Citadel Of Namur and explore the romantic features.

Set your GPS to Cologne, Germany and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cologne beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Museum Of Decorative Arts Of Namur, a locally appreciated museum in Namur. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Musée Provincial Félicien Rops. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Little Link, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Jameson Pub Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Barney Vallely's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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.

On day 14 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium 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 Leuven in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Leuven, Belgium. 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 2 hours 8 min. Upon reaching Leuven, 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 Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis, an often recommended botanical garden 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 Leuven Oude Markt and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Historic Leuven Town Hall, an underrated city hall beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Brussels. 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.

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.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Reserve, known for its inviting atmosphere. Manneken Pis Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Addict Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.