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.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Montmartre. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Champs-Élysées, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Eiffel Tower is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Arc De Triomphe, another must-visit landmark and iconic monument renowned for its symbolic 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 photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Paris experience. We also recommend visiting Sacré-cœur, a wondrous church.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Paris. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Le Sens Unique beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Le Caveau de l'isle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Paris tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Prescription Cocktail Club, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Le Boucan is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mamie Paris is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Paris, 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 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Laeken in Belgium. 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 2 nights.

Laeken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Paris behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 24 min. Laeken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Atomium, a famous monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brussels may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Brussels, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Musée Magritte Museum, an underrated museum known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Place Royale - Koningsplein, an increasingly popular monument.

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 Royal Palace Of Brussels and uncover the details of this historic palace. Make sure to also explore Grand-place, a world-famous public square.

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

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 France, Belgium, and Germany.

Make sure to reserve a table at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, 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 BrewDog 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 À La Mort Subite, 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 Churchill's, known for its inviting atmosphere. Station Bxl is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Delirium Café 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 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.

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 25 min. Upon reaching Bruges, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Burg, an often recommended public square that everyone visiting Bruges should see. Next, head to Bruges City Hall. This heritage-rich city hall is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a heritage-rich church popular among locals as well as travelers. Belfry Of Bruges is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this captivating monument before you continue your journey.

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 Bruges to Ghent may take around 49 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ghent, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Gravensteen, a well-known castle known for its breathtaking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at St. Jacob's Church, an intriguing church.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Brussels's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Lobster House, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Roumaine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

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 multi-country road trip across France, 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.

Savor the day by heading to Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a curiosity-inducing point of interest that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Rheinboulevard, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Lindt Chocolate Museum, yet another locally renowned place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to Museum Ludwig. This standout museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church you won’t want to miss.

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.

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 Cologne.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.