One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Cologne, Eindhoven, and Amsterdam
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Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 8 days. The journey covers Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Belgium, 1 night in Germany, and 3 nights in the Netherlands.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Belgium, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Brussels and begin your adventure from there. Explore Brussels and Laeken, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Germany. Immerse yourself in the allure of Brühl, Cologne, and Duisburg, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of the Netherlands. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Eindhoven, Kaatsheuvel, Drunen, Amsterdam, Lisse, and Rotterdam.
From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated public square and attraction in Brussels — Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg. About 14,784 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Brussels. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 delicious meal at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Churchill's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Station Bxl. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Delirium Café, another top-rated place in the area.
Your multi-country road trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Bois de la Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
- Autoworld
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Brussels Park
- Atomium
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brussels in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos is a travelers’ favorite in Brussels, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,963 visitors.
In Brussels, don’t miss Autoworld Brussels, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,983 reviews.
Check other top attractions in Brussels off your list when you visit the wonderful Cinquantenaire. This popular sight is an outstanding park, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 35,771 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Brussels Park. This park and place of interest has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,495 reviews.
Laeken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Laeken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Atomium is a travelers’ favorite in Laeken, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 visitors.
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, Germany, and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Brussels by booking a table at Barge, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional organic menu. For a different flavor experience, head to La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, renowned for its delectable modern and classic dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Bozar Restaurant, a local gem known for its delightful modern french and creative cuisine in Brussels. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
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.
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!
Day 3
- Brussels
- Eckdorf
- Cologne
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences
- Phantasialand
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Brussels in Belgium and Brühl 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.
In Brussels, the extraordinary Grand-place awaits. This attraction is a valued public square that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,717 travelers' reviews.
Another of the best travel destinations in Brussels is the spectacular Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This attraction is a shopping mall that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.
You could then travel to the amazing St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This local church and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,282 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.
Museum For Natural Sciences Of Belgium is another attraction you might want to add to your Brussels exploration itinerary. This museum is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 12,372 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 26,239 people.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brühl, Germany. This car ride takes around 2 hours 9 min.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Brühl, including the outstanding Phantasialand. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 91,824 reviews and welcoming more than 1,750,000 visitors each year, this fascinating amusement park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Cologne. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cologne. 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, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cologne by reserving a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional french and seafood menu. For a different taste experience, head to Ox & Klee, recognized for its delicious modern and creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit La Cuisine Rademacher, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in Cologne. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 4
- Cologne
- Duisburg
- Eindhoven
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Drive 186 km, 3 hours 2 min
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord
- More
On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Eindhoven, where you’ll be staying 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 church, Cologne Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors and gets around 5,000,000 visits every year.
The famous Lindt Chocolate Museum is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Cologne's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 37,446 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Cologne is also home to the extraordinary Cologne Zoological Garden, which boasts a 4.4 out of 5 star rating in 30,676 traveler reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Duisburg may take around 57 min. Upon your arrival in Duisburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
A tour of Duisburg is not complete without a visit to the famous Landschaftspark Duisburg-nord. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,144 travelers.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Eindhoven. 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 unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Eindhoven boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the Netherlands.
Begin your culinary exploration in Eindhoven by securing a reservation at Umami by Han. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of asian cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Zarzo, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Wiesen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Little One Speakeasy Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bobby's Bar Kleine Berg offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Altstadt Eindhoven provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Eindhoven
- Kaatsheuvel
- Drunen
- Amsterdam
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Drive 164 km, 2 hours 26 min
- Baron 1898
- Efteling
- The Loonse and Drunense Duinen National Park
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. Today's main destinations are Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands, 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Eindhoven and set your GPS to Kaatsheuvel. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Kaatsheuvel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Kaatsheuvel, including the outstanding Baron 1898. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,520 reviews, this fascinating amusement park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.
Kaatsheuvel is also home to the captivating Efteling, a local amusement park considered one of the highlights of the town. About 118,060 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 5,400,000 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Drunen, 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 Kaatsheuvel to Drunen may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Drunen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated national park and attraction in Drunen — The Loonse And Drunense Duinen National Park. About 6,633 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Amsterdam of your choice.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam'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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Keep the evening going at Excalibur Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rosalia's Menagerie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Hill Street Blues, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
As the night falls in Amsterdam, 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.
Day 6
- Amsterdam
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Vondelpark
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Anne Frank House
- More
On day 6, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Vondelpark is a travelers’ favorite in Amsterdam, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,706 visitors.
In Amsterdam, don’t miss Van Gogh Museum, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,536 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 2,161,160 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.
Check other top attractions in Amsterdam off your list when you visit the wonderful Rijksmuseum. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 93,402 travelers. Approximately 2,700,000 people visit this attraction each year.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Anne Frank House. This museum and place of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,913 reviews. It’s estimated that around 1,195,456 people come to admire it every year.
As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands 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, Amsterdam has them.
Make sure to reserve a table at Eye Film Museum, an iconic dining spot in Amsterdam. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Ambassade, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Oporto, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out 't Aepjen. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 7
- Amsterdam
- Lisse
- Rotterdam
- Brussels
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Keukenhof
- Diergaarde Blijdorp
- Erasmusbrug
- Cube Houses
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lisse in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lisse. This drive usually takes around 43 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Keukenhof. This outstanding garden and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 60,394 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Keukenhof is worth pages in your travel diary.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lisse and set your GPS to Rotterdam. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Rotterdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Rotterdam today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Diergaarde Blijdorp. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,438 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Erasmusbrug. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 13,932 visitors.
According to travelers in Rotterdam, the extraordinary Cube House is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and art installation is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,097 visitors.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations 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.
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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Reserve, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Manneken Pis Cafe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Addict Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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!
Day 8
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Leopold Park
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in Belgium, take time to indulge in shopping at Brussels’s popular marketplace, Avenue Louise. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Leopold Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Leopold Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,696 reviews.
Get a last taste of Belgium’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands.
The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands with fond memories. Safe travels!
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