One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Cologne

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Brussels in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 4 nights more.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the captivating Cinquantenaire and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Musée Magritte Museum, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Grand-place, one of the city’s most globally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. When you're finished at the shopping mall, St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels awaits your visit. This church is a historic highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’ve had your share of Brussels, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laeken. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Atomium, a spectacular monument known for its noteworthy features.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Lobster House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Roumaine. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Des Amis, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Du Canal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Delirium offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bruges. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Bruges, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Minnewaterpark. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Church Of Our Lady. This curiosity-inducing church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark. Next, take your journey to Groeninge, an up-and-coming neighborhood. Conclude your sightseeing at Belfry Of Bruges, known for its symbolic features.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Marmiton offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bistro - Porte de Hal is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La Reserve, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Addict Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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.

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Ghent in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today.

A visit to Sint-Baafsplein is a must on the agenda today. This street 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Ghent, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Ghent may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ghent, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Gravensteen, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Ghent should see. Next, head to Sint-michielsbrug. This visually striking historical landmark is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Belfry Of Ghent, a culturally significant monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Saint Bavo's Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this popular church before you continue your journey.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Brussels. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

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.

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 5 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Antwerp, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Antwerp in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

Antwerp is brimming with adventures. Zurenborg is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Antwerp. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Meir, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Set your GPS to Antwerp and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Antwerp beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, a notable church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Rubenshuis and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to Antwerp Zoo, a locally renowned zoo beloved by locals and tourists alike.

As the sun sets, 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, 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 Hotel Le Plaza Brussels, 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 BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

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!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Cologne, Germany. 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 2 hours 14 min. Upon reaching Cologne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is an intriguing point of interest we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Museum Ludwig, an eye-catching museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Cologne Cathedral, a stunning and truly unique church.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Cologne’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Cologne's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Grid Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Legends Bar & Terrasse, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. Today's main destinations are Aachen in Germany, 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 Brussels. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aachen. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Centre Charlemagne, a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Aachen should see. Next, head to Katschhof. This historic public square is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Aachen Cathedral, a historic church popular among locals as well as travelers. Kreislauf Des Geldes is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular art installation before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Elisenbrunnen, a symbolic monument and a top attraction in the city.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Walvis, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Capitale. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

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.