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

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, 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 Frankfurt in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Frankfurt, including the outstanding Römerberg. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 24,968 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Frankfurt is also home to the captivating Iron Footbridge, a local monument considered one of the highlights of the city. About 23,403 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Nizza is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Frankfurt. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,282 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Zoo Frankfurt will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing zoo and attraction an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,905 reviews.

Soak in Frankfurt's rich culture at the fantastic Palmengarten. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Frankfurt is its overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 19,461 visitor reviews.

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

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Cologne by securing a reservation at Le Moissonnier Bistro. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of french and seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ox & Klee, celebrated for its delectable modern and creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cuisine Rademacher, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Grid Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Toddy Tapper, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Legends Bar & Terrasse likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne 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 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany, Belgium, 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 Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cologne today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Cologne Cathedral. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 visitors and attracts around 5,000,000 curious travelers annually.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Lindt Chocolate Museum. This incredible attraction and museum holds an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, thanks to 37,446 visitors.

According to travelers in Cologne, the extraordinary Cologne Zoological Garden is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 30,676 visitors.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Amsterdam by booking a table at Flore, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional contemporary and creative french menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ciel Bleu, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Restaurant 212, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Amsterdam. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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

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, 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, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Amsterdam is the magnificent Anne Frank House. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 1,195,456 travelers from across the world. Around 65,913 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Rijksmuseum on this leg of your adventure in the Netherlands. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 93,402 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 2,700,000 people visit it every year.

The remarkable Van Gogh Museum is known to be one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,536 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 2,161,160 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful Van Gogh Museum is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.

Dive deeper into Amsterdam by exploring the captivating Vondelpark. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,706 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Amsterdam exploration list!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Eye Film Museum, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Ambassade? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Oporto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 't Aepjen provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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 6 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 2 vibrant destinations - Brussels in Belgium and Brühl in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Frankfurt where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Grand-place. As an appreciated public square and local gem in the area, Grand-place has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,717 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Cinquantenaire, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 reviewers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brussels, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 2 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated amusement park and attraction in Brühl — Phantasialand. About 91,824 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

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 Frankfurt'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.

Discover the culinary delights of Frankfurt by securing a reservation at Gustav. Esteemed for its 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of creative cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lafleur, renowned for its delicious modern french and creative dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Erno's Bistro, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering classic french and modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Jambo Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Cosy Bar. 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.