7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, and Cologne

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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Brussels. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Cinquantenaire is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Brussels. Next, head to Musée Magritte Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum, known for its instagrammable features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This noteworthy museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Grand-place and Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Atomium, a remarkable monument in Brussels.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Lobster House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Roumaine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Des Amis stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Du Canal offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Delirium is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

On day 3 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 Bruges in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bruges, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Brussels on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Minnewaterpark is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene park before continuing your journey. Church Of Our Lady is your next stop. This beloved church is one of the best-rated sights in Brussels.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This history-steeped historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Groeninge and Belfry Of Bruges. If time allows, end your day with Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a heritage-rich church that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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

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

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Groot Vlaenderen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bauhaus Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 and Germany. Today's main destinations are Ghent 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 Ghent. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bruges, including a museum, a castle, a church, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Stam Ghent City Museum. This intriguing museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Gravensteen located in Bruges for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Saint Nicholas' Church. Its majestic features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this church. Next up is Belfry Of Ghent, a highly recommended monument.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

Continue your lively evening at De Geus Van Gent, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Alchemist is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Hot Club Gent ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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 - Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Cologne where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Start your adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This often recommended point of interest is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the symbolic wonders of Ulrepforte, a must-see monument 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 Lindt Chocolate Museum. This captivating museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Museum Ludwig, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Cologne Cathedral. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse 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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aachen in Germany. 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.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots! Start at Carolus Thermen, a beloved spa that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Elisenbrunnen, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Aachen Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Centre Charlemagne. After exploring the museum, head to the locally appreciated Marktplatz Am Rathaus. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Ponttor, a place of standout interest in Cologne.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, 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 Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Reserve, known for its lively atmosphere. Manneken Pis Cafe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Addict Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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