7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in France, Belgium, and Germany With Itinerary from Paris to Brussels and Cologne
Description
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 7 days. The journey covers France, Belgium, and Germany, 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 France, 2 nights in Belgium, and 1 night in Germany.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of France, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Paris and begin your adventure from there. Explore Paris, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Belgium. Immerse yourself in the allure of Laeken, Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Germany. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Cologne and Heidelberg.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Laeken’s Atomium and Cologne's iconic Cologne Cathedral. 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 France, Belgium, and Germany 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 7-day self-drive adventure in France, Belgium, and Germany. 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 France, Belgium, and Germany.
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
- Paris - Arrival day
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- Notre-Dame de Paris
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in France, Belgium, and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Paris in France. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Paris for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to France to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Paris 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.
Paris 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 Notre-dame De Paris, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Paris. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mumi, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss L'Imprévu Café. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Paris.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café De Paris V stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dirty Dick offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Little Red Door is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Your multi-country road trip in France, Belgium, and Germany 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
- Paris
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Louvre Museum
- Sacré-Cœur
- Montmartre
- Champs-Élysées
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Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in France, Belgium, and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Paris for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.
Set aside time today to explore Montmartre, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Champs-Élysées, a street offering another perspective on the city.
Immerse yourself in Paris’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eiffel Tower. This history-steeped monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of Arc De Triomphe, a must-visit monument in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Louvre Museum, a globally renowned museum. For a change of scene, check out Sacré-cœur, known for its enchanting features.
Visit Galeries Lafayette in Paris for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and luxurious stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Galeries Lafayette has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
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 France, Belgium, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Paris’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.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Prescription Cocktail Club is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Le Boucan, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mamie Paris. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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.
Day 3
- Paris
- Brussels
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Drive 328 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Atomium
- Musée Magritte Museum
- Place Royale Bruxelles - Statue de Godefroy de Bouillon
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Grand-Place
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On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across France, Belgium, and Germany, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Laeken in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Atomium is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most famous places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Musée Magritte Museum, an increasingly popular 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 Place Royale - Koningsplein. This symbolic monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Royal Palace Of Brussels and Grand-place. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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.
Dine in style at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, BrewDog Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out À La Mort Subite. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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 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.
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.
Day 4
- Brussels
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Drive 206 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Burg
- Bruges City Hall
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Belfry of Bruges
- Gravensteen
- Sint-Jacobskerk
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Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across France, Belgium, and Germany 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 Bruges in Belgium.
Today’s agenda in Brussels includes a public square, a city hall, a church, a monument, a castle and much more! Burg is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Bruges City Hall, a worthwhile city hall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a photogenic church, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Brussels. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting Belfry Of Bruges. If you’re looking for more, Gravensteen is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss St. Jacob's Church, a place of photogenic interest in the city.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Brussels. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Des Amis after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Du Canal, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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.
Day 5
- Brussels
- Cologne
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Drive 223 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Rheinboulevard
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Museum Ludwig
- Cologne Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Cologne in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Brussels, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an often recommended point of interest in the city. Then, head to Rheinboulevard and soak in the ambiance of this romantic boardwalk.
There are many interesting places to see in Brussels, and when you are ready for more, go to Lindt Chocolate Museum. This is one of the city’s most notable eye-catching spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the frequently visited Museum Ludwig. Not far away, you'll also find Cologne Cathedral. This church is an UNESCO world heritage-listed highlight in Brussels.
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.
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 France, Belgium, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cologne’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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France, Belgium, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Cologne to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 6
- Cologne
- Paris
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Drive 800 km, 8 hours 27 min
- Karlsplatz
- Kornmarkt
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Karlsplatz is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking public square before continuing your journey. Kornmarkt is your next stop. This underrated public square is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Old Bridge Heidelberg. This enchanting historical landmark is a sight to behold.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Paris. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Paris boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of France.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Harp Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Bistro des Augustins? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le Petit Châtelet as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Paris.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Sherry Butt, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Highlander, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Le Sully provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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!
Day 7
- Paris - Departure day
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- Jardin du Luxembourg
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Paris 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 France, Belgium, and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Make the most of your final day in France by visiting Paris’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Galeries Lafayette. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Jardin Du Luxembourg, a visually striking park before you head out.
Get a last taste of France’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Paris 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 France, Belgium, and Germany.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Guy Savoy, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Paris for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in France, Belgium, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!
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