One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Amsterdam, 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 the Netherlands.

A tour of Frankfurt is not complete without a visit to the famous Palmengarten. This incredible botanical garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,461 travelers.

Make the most of your Frankfurt travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Alte Oper. This opera house and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,602 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Römerberg for an experience worth remembering. This local public square and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,968 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Städel Museum. This amazing site is a wonderful art museum with more than 9,458 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Frankfurt's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany 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, Frankfurt has them.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Barkello Café Bar Lounge. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Cosy Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Germany and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - 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.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cologne today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Lindt Chocolate Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 37,446 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Old Market. This incredible attraction and public square holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 12,935 visitors.

According to travelers in Cologne, the extraordinary Cologne Cathedral is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church gets around 5,000,000 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 70,814 visitors.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cologne. 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 Cologne'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.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 relaxing.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 2 nights.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 53 min. When you arrive in Amsterdam, it's time to take a break from the road.

In Amsterdam, the extraordinary Anne Frank House awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,913 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 1,195,456 visitors every year, the amazing Anne Frank House is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Another of the best travel destinations in Amsterdam is the spectacular Royal Palace Of Amsterdam. This attraction is a palace that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 22,894 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Dam Square. This local public square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 42,514 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try CAU Steak Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Excalibur Café, known for its lively atmosphere. Rosalia's Menagerie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues 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 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Düsseldorf in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Düsseldorf, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards Germany, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Düsseldorf. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Schloss Benrath. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 10,705 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Schloss Benrath is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Hofgarten is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing art gallery, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,903 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Burgplatz, an outstanding palace, is one place you should visit while in Düsseldorf considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Rheinpromenade and discover what makes this local boardwalk and wonder one of the best attractions in Düsseldorf. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 5,033 travelers.

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

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 the Netherlands.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brewery im Füchschen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The ASH Düsseldorf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Düsseldorf tonight.

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.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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 Heidelberg in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Heidelberg. This car ride takes around 3 hours 16 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Heidelberg — Heidelberg Castle. About 54,486 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Heidelberger Marktplatz is another top sight in Heidelberg that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved public square in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,790 visitors.

Old Bridge Heidelberg is a spectacular historical landmark and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Heidelberg, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,612 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Neckarwiese (heidelberg). Because of its allure and charm, around 8,059 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a highly-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Rote Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Belfordfrankfurt 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!