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

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Germany and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Frankfurt for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Frankfurt is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Palmengarten, a captivating botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Iron Footbridge, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Römerberg. This public square is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Frankfurt at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Paulsplatz. After exploring the public square, head to the beloved Goethe House.

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.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Barkello Café Bar Lounge, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Jambo Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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.

On day 3 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Lindt Chocolate Museum, an eye-catching museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Old Market awaits your visit. This public square is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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 sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Cologne. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany 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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Grid Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Toddy Tapper, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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, 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 and the Netherlands.

De Pijp is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Amsterdam. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the top-rated Vondelpark, an eye-catching park in Amsterdam. Next, go to Van Gogh Museum.

After visiting Vondelpark and Van Gogh Museum, have a stroll along Amsterdam's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rijksmuseum. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Sarphatipark is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Keep the evening going at Café Oporto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 't Aepjen, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany and the Netherlands! Enjoy your evening in Amsterdam to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Schloss Benrath is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking palace before continuing your journey. Burgplatz is your next stop. This beloved public square is one of the best-rated sights in Amsterdam.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This instagrammable art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Königsallee.

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

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 Düsseldorf'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 delightful dinner at Brewery Schumacher, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Brewery im Füchschen? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The ASH Düsseldorf as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Engelchen, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Cherie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Auberge Rock Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Take in the ambiance of Düsseldorf 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 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Heidelberg in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Frankfurt, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Düsseldorf, including a castle, a historical landmark, and a hiking area. Start your adventure at Heidelberg Castle. This astonishing castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Old Bridge Heidelberg located in Düsseldorf for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Philosophers’ Way. Its romantic features will captivate you.

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.

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 and the Netherlands.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Chicago Meatpackers offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Zum Gemalten Haus is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Frankfurt.

Continue your lively evening at Rote Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Belfordfrankfurt ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!