7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in France, Belgium, and Germany With Itinerary from Paris to Brussels and Cologne

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

A visit to Montmartre 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 Champs-Élysées as well, a street that adds another layer to your exploration.

Eiffel Tower is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This enchanting monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Arc De Triomphe, another must-visit landmark and iconic monument renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Paris by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Louvre Museum. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Paris experience. We also recommend visiting Sacré-cœur, a world-famous church.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Paris at Le Sens Unique, 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 Le Caveau de l'isle. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Paris tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prescription Cocktail Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Le Boucan for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mamie Paris is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Laeken in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 2 nights.

After soaking in Paris’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken, Belgium. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 24 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Atomium and explore the noteworthy features.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Musée Magritte Museum, a beloved museum 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 Place Royale - Koningsplein and admire its noteworthy features.

When you’re ready, continue to Royal Palace Of Brussels, an interesting palace beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Grand-place, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try BrewDog Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at À La Mort Subite as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Churchill's, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Station Bxl, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Delirium Café provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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!

On day 4 of your European tour in France, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bruges, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Bruges in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bruges, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Bruges may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bruges, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Burg, a curiosity-inducing public square in Bruges. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-designated features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Bruges City Hall. This frequently visited city hall is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Basilica Of The Holy Blood is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Belfry Of Bruges and discover what makes this monument unique.

When you’ve had your share of Bruges, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent. Your travel time is around 49 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Gravensteen, a captivating castle 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 St. Jacob's Church and admire its culturally significant features.

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

Savor the flavors at The Lobster House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Roumaine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Des Amis, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Du Canal offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Little Delirium 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.

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cologne may take around 2 hours 14 min. Upon your arrival in Cologne, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an intriguing point of interest 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 Rheinboulevard and admire its enchanting features.

When you’re ready, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, a captivating museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Museum Ludwig, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Cologne of your choice.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Cologne’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 France, Belgium, and Germany.

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.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!