10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, and Amsterdam

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Frankfurt for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Experience Senckenberg Museum, a worthwhile museum in the city. Then, head to Alte Oper and soak in the ambiance of this stunning opera house.

There are many interesting places to see in Frankfurt, and when you are ready for more, go to Goethe House. This is one of the city’s most locally appreciated photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the popular Römerberg. Not far away, you'll also find Old St. Nicholas Church. This church is a heritage-rich highlight in Frankfurt. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Iron Footbridge, a captivating monument in the city.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Frankfurt's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Apfelwein Dax, 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 Ariston Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Barkello Café Bar Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Cosy Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, 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.

Cologne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Frankfurt behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. Cologne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rheinboulevard, an instagrammable boardwalk that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Cologne Cathedral, an impressive church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Museum Ludwig, a nearby museum, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Old Market, a visually striking public square and the perfect final attraction in Cologne.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Toddy Tapper offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Laeken in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brussels where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Laeken, Belgium. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Belgium. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 28 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Atomium, a top-rated monument in Laeken. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Royal Palace Of Brussels and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Musée Magritte Museum, another highlight in Brussels. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a visually striking shopping mall.

Nearby, you will also find Church Of Saint Catherine. This underrated church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Grand-place, a majestic public square that is perfect for some final exploring in the village.

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

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 Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BrewDog Brussels is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at À La Mort Subite. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Churchill's, known for its lively atmosphere. Station Bxl is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip through Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bruges in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Bruges’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. Bruges welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Bruges City Hall, an underrated city hall known for its symbolic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a beloved 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 Bruges and uncover the details of this romantic monument. Make sure to also explore Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), an intriguing historical landmark. For your last stop, consider Church Of Our Lady, a visually striking church that many travelers find worth the detour.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Lobster House, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Des Amis, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Du Canal offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Brussels. Little Delirium is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 Germany, Belgium, 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amsterdam, where you will stay for 3 nights.

As you explore Amsterdam’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Amsterdam, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brussels to Amsterdam may take around 2 hours 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Amsterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Amsterdam Museum, a worthwhile museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Nemo Science Center, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings.

Next, explore Anne Frank House, yet another astonishing place to see in the area.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam'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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Keep the evening going at Excalibur Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rosalia's Menagerie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Hill Street Blues, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, 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 7, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Don’t miss De Pijp today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the notable Dam Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rijksmuseum, a history-steeped museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Van Gogh Museum, one of the city’s most astonishing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Vondelpark.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Amsterdam’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 Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Eye Film Museum, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Ambassade offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Oporto, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands! Enjoy your evening in Amsterdam to the fullest!

On day 8 of your European tour in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Rotterdam, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Amsterdam remains your base for 1 night more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rotterdam. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Diergaarde Blijdorp, a captivating zoo in Rotterdam. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kunsthal. This increasingly popular art gallery is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Erasmusbrug is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most culturally significant monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the locally renowned Cube House and discover what makes this art installation unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Markthal Tours, a noteworthy food market many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam'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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café Loetje, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Moon offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, d'Vijff Vlieghen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Amsterdam.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Bitterbal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Twenty Third Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Louis Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Utrecht in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, your home for 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Utrecht.

When you’ve had your share of Utrecht, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Frankfurt, Germany. Your travel time is around 4 hours 28 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a worthwhile monument known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Rietveld Schröder House, a worthwhile museum.

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 Utrecht Botanic Gardens and uncover the details of this majestic botanical garden.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Frankfurt. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Rote Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Belfordfrankfurt ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!