One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to 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. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 4 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brussels in Belgium.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Brussels, including a park, a museum, a public square, a shopping mall, a church, a monument and much more! Start your day at Cinquantenaire. This picture-perfect park is a popular place to see in Brussels. Then, wander over to Musée Magritte Museum. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Grand-place. This romantic public square is a favorite among visitors.

Brussels offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the shopping mall, don’t forget to check out the stunning St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable church. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Brussels's top attractions with a visit to Atomium.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Lobster House, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Des Amis after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Du Canal for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Delirium is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Wake up to day 3 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 Bruges in Belgium. With 3 nights left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Church Of Our Lady, a history-steeped church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Groeninge. When you're finished at the neighborhood, Belfry Of Bruges awaits your visit. This monument is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a church - the worthwhile Basilica Of The Holy Blood.

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. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

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 Addict Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

On day 4 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Ghent, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Brussels for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ghent in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Ghent is Sint-Baafsplein. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Brussels. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Gravensteen is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most well-known places to visit in Brussels. Next, head to Sint-michielsbrug, an up-and-coming historical landmark, known for its symbolic 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 Belfry Of Ghent. This instagrammable monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Saint Bavo's Cathedral. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Pasta Divina, 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 Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, 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 Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Au Soleil. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Au Brasseur, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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 by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Antwerp in Belgium.

A visit to Zurenborg in Antwerp is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood 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. Don’t forget to check out Meir as well, a street that adds another layer to your exploration.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This well-known church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rubenshuis, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Antwerp Zoo, one of the most captivating places to see in Brussels. This zoo is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Le Plaza Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 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 Cologne, your home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Next, go to Lindt Chocolate Museum.

After visiting Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge and Lindt Chocolate Museum, have a stroll along Brussels's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Museum Ludwig. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. Cologne Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 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 Aachen in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Cologne promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Centre Charlemagne. This history-steeped museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Katschhof, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Aachen Cathedral, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Kreislauf Des Geldes. This detailed art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Elisenbrunnen, a beloved monument, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Brussels's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Belgium 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, Brussels has them.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Walvis, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Capitale. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!