7-Day Road Trip in Belgium, and Germany from Brussels to Cologne, Hamburg, and Essen

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium, 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, Cinquantenaire. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 visitors.

The famous Grand-place is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Brussels's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 151,717 travelers have rated this incredible square and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Brussels is also home to the extraordinary Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 38,953 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 19,282 reviews, a visit to this wonderful church and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Laeken. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Laeken, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Laeken today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Atomium. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 visitors.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Des Amis. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Du Canal, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Little Delirium provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring 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!

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 Hamburg, your home 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 point of interest, Old Market. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 visitors.

The famous Cologne Cathedral is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area, with up to 5,000,000 people visiting it every year. As one of Cologne's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 70,814 travelers have rated this incredible catholic cathedral and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Munster, 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 Munster may take around 4 hours without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Munster, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Something that makes Munster the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding military museum, German Tank Museum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,810 visitors and gets around 85,000 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, Hamburg’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Hamburg's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Hamburg has them.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Hamburg by booking a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative, and international menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Haerlin, renowned for its delectable creative french, and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit 100/200 Kitchen, a local gem known for its delightful creative, and modern cuisine in Hamburg. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Essen where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Hamburg — Miniatur Wunderland. About 89,283 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The popular Elbe Philharmonic Hall is another top sight in Hamburg that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved concert hall in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 79,037 visitors.

Elbe Tunnel is a spectacular road tunnel and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Hamburg, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,850 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Planten Un Blomen. Because of its allure and charm, around 22,471 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

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

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 Essen’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Essen by reserving a table at Hannappel. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern, and classic menu. For a different taste experience, head to Schote, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Südrock Rock Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gentlem, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Diamond Cocktail Lounge 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!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, 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 Duisburg in Germany, and Ghent in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Duisburg is the fantastic Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,144 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Duisburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent, Belgium. Your travel time is around 2 hours 43 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 point of interest 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 museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,205 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

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.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into La Reserve. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Au Soleil. , 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!