12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany, Belgium, and France With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, Paris, and Strasbourg

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France, 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Frankfurt and set your GPS to Cologne. 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 2 hours 8 min. Upon reaching Cologne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is a locally appreciated sightseeing destination we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Cologne Cathedral, a breathtaking church. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Museum Ludwig, a heritage-rich and truly unique museum. End your sightseeing at Old Market, a well-known public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Cologne’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 France.

Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Grid Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Toddy Tapper offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Legends Bar & Terrasse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 France. 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’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laeken, Belgium. Your travel time is around 2 hours 28 min.

Savor the day by heading to Atomium, a famous monument that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brussels. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Royal Palace Of Brussels, a notable palace in Brussels. Explore its gorgeous features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Place Royale - Koningsplein. This underrated monument is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Musée Magritte Museum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most historic museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the interesting Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert and discover what makes this shopping mall unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the village, head to Grand-place, a history-steeped public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany, Belgium, and France, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Churchill's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Station Bxl is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Delirium Café also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip through Germany, Belgium, and France. 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!

When you’ve had your share of Brussels, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bruges. Your travel time is around 1 hour 18 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit De Halve Maan Brewery, a frequently visited brewery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready, continue to Rozenhoedkaai, a curiosity-inducing public square beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Bruges City Hall, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a culturally significant place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Roumaine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Des Amis, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Du Canal is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Little Delirium also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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.

Wake up and see what day 7 of your great European road trip in Germany, Belgium, and France has in store for you! You will be staying in Paris for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Montmartre is a fantastic place you can explore today in Paris. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Paris-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Champs-Élysées, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Make a stop at Arc De Triomphe. This iconic monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Eiffel Tower located in Paris for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Musée D'orsay. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jardin Du Luxembourg. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this park.

As the sun sets, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated dining spot in Paris. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Sens Unique, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Paris.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Prescription Cocktail Club, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Le Boucan, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mamie Paris provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Strasbourg in France. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Strasbourg, your home for 3 nights.

Strasbourg’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Paris behind. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 47 min. Strasbourg welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Palais Du Rhin, an intriguing palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg and admire its romantic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Pont Du Faisan, an up-and-coming street beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Petite France, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Le Baeckeoffe d'Alsace, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Blue Moon Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zehnerglock. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Strasbourg.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Canapé Queer Bar Strasbourg, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to La Mandragore. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Le Local, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 9 of your European tour in Germany, Belgium, and France, you’ll start and end your day in Heidelberg, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Heidelberg in Germany. Strasbourg remains your base for 2 nights more.

Heidelberg is brimming with adventures. Hauptstraße is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Heidelberg. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

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

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Philosophers’ Way. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the hiking area before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg. This interesting historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Church Of The Holy Spirit, Heidelberg. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Heidelberg Castle, a spectacular castle.

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Strasbourg's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cloche à Fromage RESTAURANT, a highly-rated dining destination in Strasbourg. If you're eager to try something different, consider The XX - Wine Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Origin, coffee shop végétal. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Strasbourg this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Le Schluch stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Michel - Café - Brasserie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Le Douanier is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Greet day 10 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Germany. You will return to Strasbourg for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Strasbourg behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 8 min. Rothenburg ob der Tauber welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

German Christmas Museum is an up-and-coming museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Medieval Crime Museum, a historic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Plönlein, Wandbrunnen (rothenburg Ob Der Tauber), an instagrammable public square.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Strasbourg’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 France.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Black & Wine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Le Cannibale? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Jeannette and the Cycleux as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Strasbourg.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Le Rafiot, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cathedral Beer Academy is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, A Maze In - 1er Live Escape Game De Strasbourg 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, Belgium, and France! Enjoy your evening in Strasbourg to the fullest!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France. Today's main destinations are Würzburg 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Strasbourg, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Würzburg, Germany. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Germany. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 1 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Würzburg Residence, an intriguing palace that everyone visiting Würzburg should see. Next, head to Wurzburg Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Four Tubes Fountain, a symbolic monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Old Main Bridge is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this notable historical landmark before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Marienberg Fortress, an enchanting castle and a top attraction in the city.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Zu den 12 Aposteln, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chicago Meatpackers, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Gemalten Haus, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Rote Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Belfordfrankfurt. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the night falls in Frankfurt, 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.