One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in France and Belgium With Itinerary from Paris to Reims, Bruges, and Brussels
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Embark on an unforgettable 8-day multi-country road trip across France and Belgium! If traveling through picturesque landscapes and immersing yourself in the captivating cultures of destinations like Paris, Reims, Epernay, Bruges, Ghent, and Laeken sounds like your idea of a great vacation, this iconic European tour is for you.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in France and 3 nights in Belgium.
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, Reims, Epernay, and Lille, 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 Bruges, Ghent, Laeken, and Brussels, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bruges’s Belfry Of Bruges. 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 and Belgium 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 France and Belgium. 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 and Belgium.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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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 and Belgium 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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Paris. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in France. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Paris’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 and Belgium.
Don’t miss out on dining at Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
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 and Belgium 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 20 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Louvre Museum
- parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Montmartre
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
A top thing to do today is to explore Montmartre, a must-see neighborhood in Paris. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Paris. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Eiffel Tower is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most timeless places to visit in Paris. Next, head to Arc De Triomphe, a wondrous monument, known for its history-steeped 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 Louvre Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Parc Des Buttes-chaumont. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 Paris. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Prescription Cocktail Club, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Le Boucan offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mamie Paris. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in France and Belgium! Enjoy your evening in Paris to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 3
- Paris
- Reims
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Drive 201 km, 3 hours 26 min
- place Drouet-d’Erlon
- Reims Cathedral
- Palace of Tau
- Taittinger
- Église Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul d'Épernay
- Église Notre-Dame
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Reims in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Reims, your home for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Place Drouet-d’erlon. This is an up-and-coming public square you should not miss. Another must-see is Reims Cathedral, a notable church in Paris.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Palace Of Tau. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Taittinger, another of the city’s underrated attractions. If time allows, add Église Notre-dame to your itinerary. This curiosity-inducing church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Paris.
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Reims’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 Reims. 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 and Belgium.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Chèvre et Menthe, a top-rated dining spot in Reims. If you're in the mood for something new, try La médina, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at L'Apostrophe. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Reims.
Continue your lively evening at The Glue Pot, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. L'antirouille is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bibovino ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Take in the ambiance of Reims 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 4
- Reims
- Bruges
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Drive 283 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Palais des Beaux Arts
- La Vieille Bourse
- Belfry of Bruges
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
- Burg
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On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in France and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Lille in France and 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 2 nights.
Start your adventure at Palais Des Beaux-arts De Lille. This beloved art museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Stock Exchange located in Reims for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Belfry Of Bruges. Its culturally significant features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Basilica Of The Holy Blood. Visitors usually appreciate the heritage-rich features of this church. Next up is Burg, a highly recommended public square.
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.
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 Bruges. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Vlaminck '14, a highly-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're eager to try something different, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Groot Vlaenderen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bauhaus Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5
- Bruges
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Drive 4 km, 38 min
- Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
- Groeningemuseum
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Church of Our Lady
- Minnewater Park
- Lake of Love
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On day 5, you will wake up in Bruges with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Bruges before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across France and Belgium.
Today's adventure in Bruges promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Sint-salvatorskathedraal. This breathtaking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Next, head over to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its enchanting features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Church Of Our Lady. This romantic church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Minnewaterpark, an often recommended park, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Lake Of Love before you head back to your hotel.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bruges. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium 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.
Dine in style at Bistro Den Amand, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, That's Toast boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Petite Aneth. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bruges.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting De Garre, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, 't Poatersgat is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Vintage also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the night falls in Bruges, 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 6
- Bruges
- Brussels
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 8 min
- Gravensteen
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Atomium
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Grand-Place
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On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across France and Belgium, 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 Ghent in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bruges, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Gravensteen, a popular castle in the city. Then, head to Saint Bavo's Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Bruges, and when you are ready for more, go to Atomium. This is one of the city’s most impressive culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the notable Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. Not far away, you'll also find Grand-place. This public square is a visually striking highlight in Bruges.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Brussels. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.
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 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.
Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Brussels
- Paris
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Drive 351 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Place Royale Bruxelles - Statue de Godefroy de Bouillon
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Paris Gate
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across France and Belgium. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Brussels in Belgium and Lille in France. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Paris where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Place Royale - Koningsplein. This beloved monument is a noteworthy place to see in Brussels. Continue your discovery at Royal Palace Of Brussels, a breathtaking palace with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Brussels, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cinquantenaire. This captivating park offers an instagrammable encounter with Brussels. Next, make your way to Paris Gate to add another highlight to your day. 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.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Paris of your choice.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in France and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Paris. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Harp Bar, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Bistro des Augustins, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Petit Châtelet, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Sherry Butt. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Le Sully, another top-rated bar in the area.
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 8
- Paris - Departure day
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- Jardin du Luxembourg
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On day 8 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 and Belgium. 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 Le Marais. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in France. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Jardin Du Luxembourg, a masterful 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 and Belgium.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Granite, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Guy Savoy is another top choice with a popular 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 8-day European road trip in France and Belgium with fond memories. Safe travels!
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