One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Cologne and Amsterdam
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Description
Explore Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands on an epic 8-day European road trip. Brussels, Laeken, Cologne, Amsterdam, and Lisse await!
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 5 nights in Belgium, 1 night in Germany, and 1 night 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, Laeken, Bruges, and Ghent, 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 Cologne, 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 Amsterdam, Lisse, Zaandijk, and Muiden.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Cologne’s Cologne Cathedral and Amsterdam's iconic Van Gogh Museum. 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!
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks
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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 4 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.
Brussels is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Saint-Géry/Sint-Goriks, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Churchill's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Station Bxl, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Delirium Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Atomium
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Musée Magritte Museum
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
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On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Laeken, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Brussels for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Laeken in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Atomium. This impressive monument is a culturally significant place to see in Brussels. Continue your discovery at Cinquantenaire, a culturally significant park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Brussels, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Palace Of Brussels. This popular palace offers a picture-perfect encounter with Brussels. Next, make your way to Musée Magritte Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Grand-place, a wondrous public square that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a locally renowned shopping mall in the village. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day 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, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Dine in style at The Lobster House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Roumaine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Des Amis, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Du Canal, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Little Delirium 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!
Day 3
- Brussels
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Drive 196 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Belfry of Bruges
- Groeningemuseum
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Church of Our Lady
- Minnewater Park
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Wake up to day 3 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 Bruges in Belgium. With 2 nights left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Brussels, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a frequently visited church in the city. Then, head to Belfry Of Bruges and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking monument.
After exploring the neighborhood, visit the up-and-coming Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). Not far away, you'll also find Church Of Our Lady. This church is an inviting highlight in Brussels. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Minnewaterpark, a worthwhile park in the city.
As the sun sets on day 3 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 delicious meal at Villa Lorraine, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Marmiton, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to La Reserve, known for its inviting atmosphere. Manneken Pis Cafe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Addict Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands! 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.
Day 4
- Brussels
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 20 min
- Gravensteen
- Saint Michael's Bridge
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)
- Sint-Baafsplein
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Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands 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 Ghent in Belgium.
Make sure to visit Sint-Baafsplein, a popular street in Ghent. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Today's adventure in Brussels promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Gravensteen. This picture-perfect castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Sint-michielsbrug, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Belfry Of Ghent, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This stunning church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Museum Of Fine Arts Ghent (msk), an up-and-coming museum, and take a stroll around the area.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Pasta Divina, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Brussels off Grand Place offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Au Soleil. Stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Au Brasseur offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.
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 5
- Brussels
- Cologne
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Drive 224 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Museum Ludwig
- Cologne Cathedral
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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 Cologne 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This is an underrated sightseeing destination you should not miss. Another must-see is Lindt Chocolate Museum, a popular museum in Brussels.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Museum Ludwig. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Cologne Cathedral, another of the city’s widely recognized attractions.
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 sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Cologne's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany 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, Cologne has them.
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.
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.
Take in the ambiance of Cologne 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!
Day 6
- Cologne
- Amsterdam
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Vondelpark
- Van Gogh Museum
- Anne Frank House
- Dam Square
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 1 vibrant destinations - Amsterdam in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Amsterdam where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Vondelpark is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most astonishing places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Van Gogh Museum, an astonishing museum, known for its eye-catching 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 Anne Frank House. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Dam Square. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Amsterdam. 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 Amsterdam boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the Netherlands.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Amsterdam at CAU Steak Restaurant, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Excalibur Café after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Rosalia's Menagerie for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Café Hill Street Blues is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
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 7
- Amsterdam
- Brussels
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Drive 327 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Keukenhof
- Paintmill De Kat
- The Zaansche Mill
- Muiderslot
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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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Next, go to Paintmill De Kat.
After visiting Keukenhof and Paintmill De Kat, have a stroll along Amsterdam's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to The Zaansche Mill. This instagrammable museum offers a unique experience. Muiderslot is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brussels’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, 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.
Dine in style at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Le Plaza Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 8
- Brussels - Departure day
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- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
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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.
Maximize your last day in Belgium and go on a shopping spree in Brussels’s shopping center, the lively Rue Neuve. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Belgium.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a picture-perfect church before you head out.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Walvis, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
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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