9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, Amsterdam, Cologne, and Paris

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, 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 1 night more.

Brussels is brimming with adventures.

Start your day at Cinquantenaire. This picture-perfect park is a popular place to see in Brussels. Then, wander over to Brussels Park. If enchanting sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Musée Magritte Museum. This photogenic museum 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, Grand-place is a wondrous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the public square, don’t forget to check out the enchanting Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular shopping mall.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Laeken. This drive usually takes around 20 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 Atomium, an astonishing monument that everyone visiting Laeken should see.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Lobster House, 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 o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, 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 Restaurant Roumaine, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Des Amis, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Little Delirium provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence Bruges in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bruges, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Bruges. 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 1 hour 23 min. Upon reaching Bruges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Minnewaterpark. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Church Of Our Lady. This worthwhile 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 intriguing neighborhood. Conclude your sightseeing at Belfry Of Bruges, known for its enchanting features.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bruges. 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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bruges.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining spot in Bruges. If you're in the mood for something new, try Het Visioen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at t'Lammetje. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bruges.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Groot Vlaenderen, known for its lively atmosphere. Bauhaus Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Ghent in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, your home for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bruges, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ghent. This drive usually takes around 50 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Gravensteen, a locally renowned castle known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Saint Bavo's Cathedral, an interesting church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Belfry Of Ghent and uncover the details of this breathtaking monument.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Ghent. 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, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Savor the flavors at Maste Bvba, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Godot beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Patrick Foley's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ghent tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at De Geus Van Gent after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Alchemist for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hot Club Gent 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!

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cologne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Cologne may take around 2 hours 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cologne, 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 Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Cologne should see. Next, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This eye-catching museum is one of the most notable attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Museum Ludwig, a photogenic museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Cologne Cathedral is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this spectacular church before you continue your journey.

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, 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.

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.

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.

As the night falls in Cologne, 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 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence Versailles in France. 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.

Set your GPS to Versailles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 57 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Versailles beckons with new experiences!

Marie-antoinette's Estate is an increasingly popular palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Palace Of Versailles, an enchanting palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Royal Chapel, an UNESCO world heritage-designated church.

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

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

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at La Reserve, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Manneken Pis Cafe. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Addict Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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!