12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Muenster, Bremen, and Hamburg

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, 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.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Frankfurt. Begin your sightseeing with Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Rheinboulevard, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Frankfurt, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Museum Ludwig. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cologne Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Old Market is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Grid Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Toddy Tapper is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany and the Netherlands! 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.

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 Düsseldorf in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Schloss Benrath, a popular palace in the city. Then, head to Königsallee and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring street.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming photogenic spots of interest.

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.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands 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, Amsterdam has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Excalibur Café stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rosalia's Menagerie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Hill Street Blues is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam 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!

On day 5, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Germany and the Netherlands.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Amsterdam is Jordaan. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Amsterdam, including a park, a museum, and a public square. Start your day with a visit to Vondelpark. This top-rated park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Van Gogh Museum, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Amsterdam 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 Rijksmuseum, an impressive museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dam Square.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Amsterdam. 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 Eye Film Museum, an iconic dining spot in Amsterdam. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Ambassade, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your lively evening at Café Oporto, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 't Aepjen ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam 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!

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Germany and the Netherlands, 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 Utrecht in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Muenster, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Rotterdam. Your adventure starts at Dom Tower Of Utrecht, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum. This captivating museum is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rotterdam's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rietveld Schröder House. This heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, an iconic dining spot in Muenster. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Schloßtheater Münster, a popular restaurant in Muenster. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße, a hidden gem nestled in Muenster. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Atelier, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Spooky's provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

Wake up and see what day 9 of your great European road trip in Germany and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Bremen for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Begin your adventure at Schnoor. This is a well-known street you should not miss. Another must-see is Bremen, a curiosity-inducing public square in Bremen.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Bremen Roland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Town Musicians Of Bremen, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Bremen Town Hall (ensemble), a historic place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Übersee-museum Bremen to your itinerary. This beloved museum offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Bremen.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, an iconic dining spot in Bremen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Jürgenshof, a popular restaurant in Bremen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Bremen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Wohnzimmer Bremen, known for its lively atmosphere. König Lounge is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cottons Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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!

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Hamburg in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hamburg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bremen allows for both. Start by heading to Miniatur Wunderland. This spectacular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Elbe Philharmonic Hall, an enchanting concert hall, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St. Pauli Piers, an interesting pier. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Elbe Tunnel. Round off your day at Planten Un Blomen, another gem in Bremen with mesmerizing features to discover.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Hamburg’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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 and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Hamburg’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.

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

Keep the evening going at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Scandic Hamburg Emporio, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the night falls in Hamburg, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lübeck in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, your home for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Hamburg includes a restaurant, a church, and a museum. Café Niederegger - Stammhaus is must-visit restaurant and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Lübeck Cathedral, a beloved church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Museum Of Nature And Environment, a respected museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands, 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.

Savor the flavors at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chicago Meatpackers beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Zum Gemalten Haus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Rote Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Belfordfrankfurt 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!