One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany, Belgium, and France With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, Bruges, and Paris
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Description
Get ready for an exhilarating 8-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Germany, Belgium, and France and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Germany, 2 nights in Belgium, and 2 nights in France.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Germany, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Frankfurt and begin your adventure from there. Explore Frankfurt and Cologne, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Belgium. Immerse yourself in the allure of Laeken, Brussels, and Bruges, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of France. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Paris and Strasbourg.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Laeken’s Atomium and Paris's iconic Louvre Museum. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Germany, Belgium, and France. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Germany, Belgium, and France.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Frankfurt - Arrival day
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- Iron Footbridge
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Germany, Belgium, and France begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Frankfurt in Germany. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Frankfurt for 1 night.
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 city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Frankfurt is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Iron Footbridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Frankfurt. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Frankfurt. 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 lovely dining experience at Berliner Keller Frankfurt, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Frankfurt at Im Herzen Afrikas, 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 25hours Hotel Frankfurt The Trip. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.
Keep the evening going at Gute Stute, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt), which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gleis 25, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Your multi-country road trip in Germany, Belgium, and France 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
- Frankfurt
- Cologne
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Drive 197 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- Rheingarten (Köln)
- Cologne Cathedral
- Old Market
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across Germany, Belgium, and France. 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.
Start by visiting Lindt Chocolate Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rhine Garden Sculpture, another must-visit landmark and intriguing park renowned for its instagrammable features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Frankfurt by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cologne Cathedral. This breathtaking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Frankfurt experience. We also recommend visiting Old Market, an interesting public square.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Cologne. 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.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cologne. 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, Belgium, and France.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SAVOY Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café Reichard as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Cologne
- Brussels
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Drive 231 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Atomium
- Brussels Park
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Grand-Place
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of 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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Atomium. This astonishing monument is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Brussels Park, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This notable church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Grand-place is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Brussels.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Brussels boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Belgium.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? BrewDog Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss À La Mort Subite. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Churchill's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Station Bxl is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Delirium Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 4
- Brussels
- Bruges
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Drive 96 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Minnewater Park
- Sashuis
- Church of Our Lady
- Boniface Bridge (Bonifaciusbrug)
- Belfry of Bruges
- Basilica of the Holy Blood
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France. 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.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Minnewaterpark. This intriguing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Sashuis, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Church Of Our Lady, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Brussels. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Then, head to Belfry Of Bruges, a top-rated monument that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the underrated Basilica Of The Holy Blood, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Bruges. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Belgium's delectable cuisine at one of Bruges'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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Het Visioen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at t'Lammetje. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bruges tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Groot Vlaenderen, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bauhaus Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany, Belgium, and France! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 5
- Bruges
- Paris
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Drive 300 km, 4 hours 2 min
- Sacré-Cœur
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame de Paris
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On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany, Belgium, and France, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Paris in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Paris, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bruges. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Sacré-cœur is the perfect place to start. This church is one of the most world-famous places to visit in Bruges. Next, head to Louvre Museum, a wondrous museum, known for its eye-catching features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Notre-dame De Paris. This enchanting church is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Paris of your choice.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Paris. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France 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 Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café De Paris V after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Dirty Dick, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Little Red Door also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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!
Day 6
- Paris
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Drive 15 km, 59 min
- Champ de Mars
- Eiffel Tower
- Arc de Triomphe
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Le Marais
- Champs-Élysées
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Day 6 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
Make sure to visit Le Marais, a popular neighborhood in Paris. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Champs-Élysées today, a street that’s well worth a visit.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Paris. Your adventure starts at Champ De Mars, a timeless local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eiffel Tower. This world-famous monument is known for its visually striking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Paris's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Arc De Triomphe. This enchanting monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Jardin Du Luxembourg is also worth visiting.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Paris. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in France 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 lovely meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Le Sens Unique is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Le Caveau de l'isle. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Paris tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Prescription Cocktail Club. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Le Boucan offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mamie Paris, another top-rated bar in the area.
As the night falls in Paris, 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.
Day 7
- Paris
- Frankfurt
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Drive 705 km, 7 hours 29 min
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg
- place du Château
- The Little Red Door - Escape Game
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On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and France, 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 Strasbourg in France. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.
Paris is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a public square, and an escape room. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the impressive Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Strasbourg and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Place Du Château, a history-steeped public square that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to The Little Red Door - Escape Game, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss.
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.
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, Belgium, and France 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.
Savor the flavors at Restaurant Lohninger, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Apfelwein Dax beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ariston Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Frankfurt tonight.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Barkello Café Bar Lounge, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Jambo Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Cosy Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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.
Day 8
- Frankfurt - Departure day
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- Zeil
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On day 8 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, Belgium, and France. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Frankfurt’s popular marketplace, Zeil. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Zeil, a street that captures the true essence of Frankfurt. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
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, Belgium, and France.
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 8-day European road trip in Germany, Belgium, and France with fond memories. Safe travels!
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