12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and Belgium With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Düsseldorf, Heidelberg, and Stuttgart

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

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Frankfurt, including a botanical garden, an opera house, a public square, a monument, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Palmengarten. This popular botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Alte Oper, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Frankfurt on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Römerberg, an interesting public square in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Iron Footbridge and German Film Museum. End your day with a visit to Nizza, a curiosity-inducing park that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Bring home unique finds from Frankfurt's bustling shopping hub, Skyline Plaza. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Skyline Plaza offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Frankfurt. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant Lohninger, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Apfelwein Dax, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ariston Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Jambo Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Cosy Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Cologne in Germany, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rheinboulevard, an awe-inspiring boardwalk that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the top-rated Cologne Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Old Market awaits your visit. This public square is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Cologne boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Germany.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Aachen in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo. This locally appreciated zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Elisenbrunnen, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Kreislauf Des Geldes. This beloved art installation is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Aachen Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Katschhof is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Centre Charlemagne and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most increasingly popular attractions.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Savor the flavors at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BrewDog Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider À La Mort Subite. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Churchill's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Station Bxl provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Delirium Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium 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 Laeken in Belgium.

Immerse yourself in Brussels’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Atomium. This awe-inspiring monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a must-visit church in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a well-known shopping mall. For a change of scene, check out Grand-place, known for its history-steeped features. We also recommend visiting Musée Magritte Museum. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the village to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to Royal Palace Of Brussels, yet another captivating attraction in Brussels.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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 and Belgium.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Lobster House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Roumaine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Des Amis after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Du Canal for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Delirium 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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, 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 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Brussels, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Groeninge, an up-and-coming neighborhood in the city. Then, head to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug) and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Brussels, and when you are ready for more, go to Church Of Our Lady. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the popular Belfry Of Bruges. Not far away, you'll also find Basilica Of The Holy Blood. This church is an instagrammable highlight in Brussels.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Bruges. 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 Germany and Belgium.

Don’t miss out on dining at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Groot Vlaenderen offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bauhaus Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. 't Brugs Beertje is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany and Belgium! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Germany 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 Ghent, where you will stay for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Bruges on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating castle, Gravensteen. Afterward, continue to Saint Nicholas' Church, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Bruges’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This captivating church is an essential stop. Following that, head to Belfry Of Ghent, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Ghent. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ghent’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 and Belgium.

Make sure to reserve a table at Maste Bvba, an iconic dining spot in Ghent. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Godot, a popular restaurant in Ghent. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Patrick Foley's, a hidden gem nestled in Ghent. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting De Geus Van Gent, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Alchemist is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Hot Club Gent also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

As the night falls in Ghent, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Germany and Belgium. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Düsseldorf in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Düsseldorf where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming city of Ghent. Your adventure starts at Schloss Benrath, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This locally appreciated art gallery is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Ghent's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Königsallee. This stunning street offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Düsseldorf's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brewery Schumacher, a highly-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're eager to try something different, consider Brewery im Füchschen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The ASH Düsseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Engelchen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Cherie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Heidelberg in Germany, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Heidelberg. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Düsseldorf covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a church, a historical landmark, a hiking area and much more! Start your adventure at Heidelberg Castle. This famous castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg, a must-see church in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This captivating historical landmark offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Philosophers’ Way, where you can take in standout features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Heidelberg. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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 Heidelberg. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Strohauer's Café Alt Heidelberg, a top-rated dining destination in Heidelberg. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joe Molese 117 - Burgers'n'Sandwiches. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Heidelberg this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Friedrich, Kaffee & Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sonder Bar (pinte) offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Bar Goodfellas is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Stuttgart in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stuttgart, your home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Killesberg Tower. This locally appreciated park is a romantic place to see in Heidelberg. Continue your discovery at Wilhelma, a visually striking zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Heidelberg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mercedes-benz Museum. This well-known museum offers a breathtaking encounter with Heidelberg. Next, make your way to Schloßplatz 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 Heidelberg.

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

As the sun sets on day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Stuttgart's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Stuttgart has them.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tavern Waldhorn, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Café Le Théâtre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Wirtshaus Garbe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Stuttgart.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Le Petit Coq, known for its lively atmosphere. Jigger & Spoon is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Schwarz Weiß Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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!