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

On day 2, you will wake up in Frankfurt with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Frankfurt before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Your adventure in Frankfurt is only getting started when you visit Senckenberg Museum, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Palmengarten. This popular botanical garden is known for its heritage-rich appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Frankfurt's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Alte Oper. This stunning opera house offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Römerberg is also worth visiting, along with Iron Footbridge. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Nizza. This locally appreciated park provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Frankfurt’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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Apfelwein Dax offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ariston Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Barkello Café Bar Lounge. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Jambo Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Cologne where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Frankfurt, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cologne. Your travel time is around 2 hours 8 min.

Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is an increasingly popular sightseeing destination we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Lindt Chocolate Museum, a photogenic museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Museum Ludwig, an instagrammable and truly unique museum. End your sightseeing at Cologne Cathedral, a famous church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

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 the Netherlands.

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. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 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 Aachen in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 5 nights.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Aachen is Carolus Thermen, a locally appreciated spa that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Elisenbrunnen, a symbolic monument 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 Aachen Cathedral, an interesting church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Katschhof, a nearby public square, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at City Hall Aachen, a standout city hall and the perfect final attraction in Aachen.

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

As the sun sets, 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.

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.

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 5 of your European tour in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Brussels in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 4 nights more.

Make a stop at Royal Palace Of Brussels. This captivating palace is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Musée Magritte Museum located in Brussels for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Grand-place. Its majestic features will captivate you. After the public square, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this shopping mall. Next up is St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a highly recommended church.

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Atomium. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Lobster House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Roumaine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Des Amis, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Du Canal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Delirium offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 to day 6 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 3 nights left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Bruges on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Set your GPS to Bruges and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 23 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bruges beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Bruges is Minnewaterpark, an up-and-coming park that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Church Of Our Lady, a history-steeped church 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 Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), an often recommended historical landmark that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Groeninge, a nearby neighborhood, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Belfry Of Bruges, a history-steeped monument and the perfect final attraction in Bruges.

As the sun sets, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Villa Lorraine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Le Marmiton offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at La Reserve, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Manneken Pis Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Addict Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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!

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands 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 Ghent in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Sint-Baafsplein, a street that captures the true essence of Ghent. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Ghent. 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 1 hour 3 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Gravensteen, a well-known castle that everyone visiting Ghent should see. Next, head to Sint-michielsbrug. This history-steeped historical landmark is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Belfry Of Ghent, a historic monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Ghent City Hall is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular city hall before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a breathtaking church and a top attraction in the city.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Brussels. 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, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pasta Divina, a highly-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre. 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 Au Soleil. , which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Au Brasseur is another popular option for a drink or two.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Antwerp. This car ride takes around 56 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Museum Aan De Stroom, a captivating museum in Antwerp. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This notable church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Rubenshuis is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Antwerp Zoo and discover what makes this zoo unique.

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.

Dine in style at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Le Plaza Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.

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!

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence Rotterdam in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Rotterdam, the Netherlands and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Rotterdam beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Erasmusbrug, a well-known monument that everyone visiting Rotterdam should see. Next, head to Boompjeskade. This romantic street is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Cube House, a picture-perfect art installation popular among locals as well as travelers. Markthal Tours is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this up-and-coming food market before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Diergaarde Blijdorp, an eye-catching zoo and a top attraction in the city.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, 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 CAU Steak Restaurant, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Excalibur Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rosalia's Menagerie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 10 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Amsterdam. Enjoy time off the road as you have 2 nights left in the city.

De Pijp is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Amsterdam, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Begijnhof makes a great addition to your morning plans. This frequently visited historical landmark is an enchanting place to see in Amsterdam. Continue your discovery at Rijksmuseum, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Amsterdam, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Van Gogh Museum. This spectacular museum offers a standout encounter with Amsterdam. Next, make your way to Vondelpark 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 Amsterdam.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Amsterdam. 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, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Savor the flavors at Eye Film Museum, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Ambassade beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Oporto, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Aepjen is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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 11 of your great European road trip in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Don’t miss Jordaan 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.

Enjoy all that Amsterdam Museum has to offer. This is a frequently visited museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Dam Square, a captivating public square in Amsterdam.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Royal Palace Of Amsterdam. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Negen Straatjes, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Anne Frank House, a symbolic place of interest in the city.

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 Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Loetje, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Amsterdam at Restaurant Moon, 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 d'Vijff Vlieghen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.

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.

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!

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Today's main destinations are Düsseldorf 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Düsseldorf, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf may take around 2 hours 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Düsseldorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stadterhebungsmonument, a frequently visited monument in Düsseldorf. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Burgplatz. This often recommended public square is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Town Hall is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most photogenic city hall in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the intriguing Pegeluhr and discover what makes this monument unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Rheinpromenade, an enchanting boardwalk many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Frankfurt. 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, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining spot in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood for something new, try Chicago Meatpackers, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Zum Gemalten Haus. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Frankfurt.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Rote Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Belfordfrankfurt is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Take in the ambiance of Frankfurt 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!