7-Day Road Trip in Germany and the Netherlands from Frankfurt to Arnhem, Amsterdam, and Cologne

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Frankfurt in Germany. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Frankfurt for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Germany to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Frankfurt before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Frankfurt is the fantastic Nizza. As an appreciated urban park and local gem in the area, Nizza has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,147 reviews.

You’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in Frankfurt. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring.

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 Frankfurt’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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Gustav, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Frankfurt, holding 2 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on creative and market cuisine, Gustav has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is Lafleur. This exceptional dining experience in Frankfurt has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Featuring modern french and creative cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by Erno's Bistro in Frankfurt. Its 1-Michelin star menu is designed to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a culinary adventure. Many previous guests have raved about this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star reputation.

Unwind after a long day in one of the best and most popular bars in Frankfurt, Der Fette Bulle. This famous place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,097 customers.

Another trendy bar is o'reilly's Irish pubs. This bar’s extensive drink menu, amazing vibe, and friendly atmosphere have earned it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars, based on the reviews of 4,367 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Frankfurt. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the region for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Palmengarten is a travelers’ favorite in Frankfurt, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,771 visitors.

In Frankfurt, don’t miss Alte Oper, a great concert hall and place to see in the region. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,197 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Frankfurt off your list when you visit the wonderful Römerberg. This popular sight is an outstanding square, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,079 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Iron Footbridge. This point of interest and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,822 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Zoo Frankfurt awaits. This zoo is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,226 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Frankfurt by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Frankfurt.

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 region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Germany and the Netherlands.

Don't miss out on experiencing Restaurant Klosterhof, a renowned dining spot in Frankfurt. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,908 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Gaststätte Atschel while immersing yourself in Frankfurt. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,694 guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,956 happy guests.

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 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Arnhem in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Arnhem. Arnhem will be your home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Frankfurt, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Arnhem in the Netherlands. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to the Netherlands. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 19 min.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Arnhem has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Germany. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at 't Taphuys Arnhem, a popular restaurant in Arnhem. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,793 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Eetcafé Sint Jan, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,538 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Caspar. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 928 customers.

Sugar Hill is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 887 customers.

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

On day 4 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 North Holland in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amsterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Arnhem to the enchanting landscapes of Amsterdam. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 1 hour 17 min without traffic disruptions.

Get a more in-depth understanding of North Holland by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in North Holland.

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

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 and the Netherlands.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Gartine, an acclaimed dining establishment in Amsterdam. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 678 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of The Pantry while experiencing the best of Amsterdam. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,646 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Proeflokaal Arendsnest, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Proeflokaal Arendsnest has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,048 customers.

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!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and the Netherlands. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to North Brabant in the Netherlands and Bergheim 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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to Cologne, Germany. 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 4 hours 3 min.

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

In North Brabant, the extraordinary Baron 1898 awaits. This attraction is a valued dive coaster that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,459 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in North Brabant is the spectacular Beekse Bergen. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 27,094 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

To make your fun escapade in North Brabant, Germany even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

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.

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 Cologne’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.

Reserve a table at Le Moissonnier, a 2 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining establishment in Cologne. This epicurean hotspot’s delectable creative french and classic offering makes it a crowd favorite. Le Moissonnier is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Cologne is Ox & Klee, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern and creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Ox & Klee’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, La Cuisine Rademacher. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Cologne for its appetizing selection of food, including its modern french courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Toddy Tapper. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 590 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,484 customers.

Gilden im Zims cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 5,823 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

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 just relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Cologne is the fantastic Cologne Chocolate Museum. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Cologne Chocolate Museum has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,145 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Old Market. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,654 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Cologne Cathedral, a standout catholic cathedral and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 68,667 reviewers, so it's no surprise that it attracts as many as 5,000,000 visitors annually.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 29,743 visitor reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Frankfurt. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Elevate your experience in Cologne by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful city.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to include a unique blend of top-rated experiences to your travel diary. Browse all of your options below and reserve your slot before it's too late.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Frankfurt. 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 day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to 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 region’s most popular bars.

Reserve your spot at Zum Gemalten Haus, a popular local restaurant in Frankfurt. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,641 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Bananas Shisha Lounge. This famous bar in Frankfurt has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 746 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Champions Frankfurt. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Champions Frankfurt has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 831 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 400 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Frankfurt 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 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Frankfurt before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Germany and the Netherlands. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Germany by visiting Frankfurt’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the region’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Germany.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Frankfurt is the fantastic MesseTurm. As an appreciated skyscraper and local gem in the area, MesseTurm has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,250 reviews.

Get a last taste of Germany’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Frankfurt and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Germany and the Netherlands.

The time has come to say farewell to Frankfurt for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Germany and the Netherlands with fond memories. Safe travels!