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!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Brussels. Begin your sightseeing with Cinquantenaire. This notable park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Musée Magritte Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Brussels, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Grand-place, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Atomium and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most widely recognized attractions.

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 The Lobster House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Roumaine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Des Amis after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Du Canal, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bruges in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, your home for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Minnewaterpark. This intriguing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Church Of Our Lady located in Brussels for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Groeninge. Next up is Belfry Of Bruges, a highly recommended monument. For a change of pace, head to Basilica Of The Holy Blood. As one of the most increasingly popular attractions in Brussels, this church is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bruges. 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 Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

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

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

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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bruges. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Stam Ghent City Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most underrated places to visit in Bruges. Next, head to Gravensteen, a captivating castle, 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 Saint Nicholas' Church. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Saint Bavo's Cathedral and Belfry Of Ghent. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Maste Bvba, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Godot? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Patrick Foley's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Ghent.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at De Geus Van Gent, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Alchemist offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hot Club Gent provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the night falls in Ghent, 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 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Ulrepforte, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the most well-known places to see in Ghent. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Museum Ludwig. Wander around and soak in the instagrammable atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Cologne Cathedral, a top-rated church that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Carolus Thermen. This increasingly popular spa is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Elisenbrunnen, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Aachen Cathedral. This popular church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Centre Charlemagne, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Marktplatz Am Rathaus is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Ponttor and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

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.

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 Brussels'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.

Savor the flavors at Villa Lorraine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Marmiton beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting La Reserve after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Manneken Pis Cafe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Addict Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!