6-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Cologne and Antwerp
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 6-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Belgium and Germany guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Belgium and 2 nights in Germany.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Belgium, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Brussels and begin your adventure from there. Explore Brussels, Laeken, Antwerp, Ghent, and Cambron-Casteau, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Germany. Immerse yourself in the allure of Cologne, Keldung, Koblenz, and Brühl, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Cologne’s Cologne Cathedral. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 6-day self-drive adventure in Belgium and Germany. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Belgium and Germany.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Brussels - arrival day
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Royal Palace of Brussels
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 1 night.
Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated palace and attraction in Brussels — Royal Palace Of Brussels. About 12,807 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Find your way to your hotel in Brussels. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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.
Savor the flavors at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BrewDog Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider À La Mort Subite. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Churchill's, known for its lively atmosphere. Station Bxl is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Your multi-country road trip in Belgium and Germany has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2 – Brussels, Laeken, and Cologne
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
- Cologne
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Drive 241 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Brussels Park
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Atomium
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. Today's main destinations are Brussels 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
In Brussels, the extraordinary Grand-place awaits. This attraction is a valued public square that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,717 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Brussels is the spectacular Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This attraction is a shopping mall that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Brussels Park. This local park and wonder has an overall review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,495 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
Cinquantenaire is another attraction you might want to add to your Brussels exploration itinerary. This park is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,771 reviews.
Set your GPS to Laeken and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Laeken beckons with new experiences!
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Laeken, including the outstanding Atomium. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 91,642 reviews, this fascinating monument and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cologne. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of french and seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ox & Klee, renowned for its delectable modern and creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.
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.
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!
Day 3 – Cologne, Keldung, Koblenz, and Glees
- Cologne
- Keldung
- Koblenz
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Drive 272 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Eltz Castle
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- Emperor William Memorial at Deutsches Eck
- Maria Laach Abbey
- Cologne Cathedral
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On day 3 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Keldung, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Cologne for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Keldung in Germany to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cologne today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Cologne Cathedral. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors and attracts around 5,000,000 curious travelers annually.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Keldung, 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 Cologne to Keldung may take around 1 hour 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Something that makes Keldung the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Eltz Castle. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,367 visitors.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This outstanding castle and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 18,566 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Deutsches Eck is another of the village's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This monument and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,555 travelers.
After soaking in Koblenz’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glees. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Glees, it's time to take a break from the road.
In Glees, the extraordinary Maria Laach Abbey awaits. This attraction is a valued monastery that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,805 travelers' reviews.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss RheinZeit. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Cologne, Brühl, and Antwerp
- Cologne
- Eckdorf
- Antwerp
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Drive 254 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Phantasialand
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Cologne in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Antwerp, your home for 1 night.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cologne today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Lindt Chocolate Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Cologne Zoological Garden. This incredible attraction and zoo holds an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to 30,676 visitors.
Set your GPS to Brühl and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brühl beckons with new experiences!
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brühl. Your travel time is around 29 min.
A tour of Brühl is not complete without a visit to the famous Phantasialand. This incredible amusement park and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 91,824 travelers, and is visited by 1,750,000 people every year.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Antwerp.
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 Antwerp. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Discover the culinary delights of Antwerp by securing a reservation at Zilte. Esteemed for its 3-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Hertog Jan at Botanic, renowned for its delicious creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Nebo, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary and modern french menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hopper stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dogma offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bar Basil is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Take in the ambiance of Antwerp 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!
Day 5 – Antwerp, Ghent, Cambron-Casteau, and Brussels
- Antwerp
- Ghent
- Cambron-Casteau
- Brussels
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Drive 189 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Gravensteen
- Pairi Daiza
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ghent in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent. Your travel time is around 58 min.
In Ghent, the extraordinary Saint Bavo's Cathedral awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,470 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Ghent is the spectacular Belfry Of Ghent. This attraction is a monument that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,470 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing Gravensteen. This local castle and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,205 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ghent, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cambron-Casteau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Something that makes Cambron-Casteau the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding zoo, Pairi Daiza. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 70,507 visitors and gets around 2,000,000 visits every year.
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 sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Brussels. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Brussels by securing a table at Barge. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional organic menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, famous for its scrumptious modern and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Bozar Restaurant, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern french and creative cuisine in Brussels. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern french and creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Des Amis, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Du Canal, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Little Delirium likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 6 – Brussels - departure day
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
- Grand-Place
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On day 6 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Belgium and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Brussels is the magnificent Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg. Around 14,784 visitors have rated this excellent public square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Get a last taste of Belgium’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Belgium and Germany.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Marmiton, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 6-day European road trip in Belgium and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!
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