One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and Belgium With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, Bruges, and Düsseldorf

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 and Belgium.

Visiting Palmengarten is always a good idea. This interesting botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Alte Oper, a must-see opera house in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Goethe House. This locally appreciated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Römerberg, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Iron Footbridge and Frankfurt Cathedral These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its lively atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Cosy Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cologne, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Frankfurt to Cologne may take around 2 hours 8 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cologne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, head to Hahnentorburg. This worthwhile monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Rheinboulevard. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the boardwalk. Next, take your journey to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum. Conclude your sightseeing at Museum Ludwig, known for its visually striking features.

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

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

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

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Laeken in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Brussels, your home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Laeken, Belgium. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Laeken, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

Brussels’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Laeken behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Brussels welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Royal Palace Of Brussels. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the palace before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Place Royale - Koningsplein. This locally appreciated monument is a traveler-favorite in the village.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Musée Magritte Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a popular shopping mall. Conclude your sightseeing at Grand-place, known for its majestic features.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Brussels. 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 Belgium by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at BrewDog Brussels, 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 À La Mort Subite. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Bruges in Belgium, 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 Bruges. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Bruges’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Bruges welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Church Of Our Lady, a frequently visited church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Belfry Of Bruges and uncover the details of this majestic monument. Make sure to also explore Basilica Of The Holy Blood, an intriguing church. For your last stop, consider Burg, a romantic public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bruges. 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 and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Bruges.

Dine in style at Vlaminck '14, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Het Visioen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out t'Lammetje. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bruges.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Groot Vlaenderen after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bauhaus Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, 't Brugs Beertje is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Germany and Belgium. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Aachen in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Düsseldorf where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Bruges’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Aachen, Germany. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 37 min. When you arrive in Aachen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ponttor and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Marktplatz Am Rathaus, another highlight in Aachen. When you’re done exploring the public square, continue to Aachen Cathedral, a historic church.

Nearby, you will also find Kreislauf Des Geldes. This frequently visited art installation is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Elisenbrunnen, a photogenic monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Düsseldorf. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Königsallee is an up-and-coming street we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Düsseldorf’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 Düsseldorf’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 Belgium.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Engelchen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Cherie is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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

Set your GPS to Heidelberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heidelberg beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Heidelberg is Philosophers’ Way, an up-and-coming hiking area that draws attention for its idyllic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Liebesstein, a romantic 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 Old Bridge Heidelberg, a captivating historical landmark that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Heidelberg Castle, a nearby castle, highly recommended by other travelers.

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.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Frankfurt 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 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Rote Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Frankfurt. Belfordfrankfurt is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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.