9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and Belgium With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Brussels, and Bruges

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Frankfurt on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Palmengarten is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing botanical garden before continuing your journey. Senckenberg Museum is your next stop. This increasingly popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Frankfurt.

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 Städel Museum. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Iron Footbridge and Römerberg. If time allows, end your day with Alte Oper, a visually striking opera house that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

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 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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, known for its inviting atmosphere. Jambo Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Cosy Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Cologne 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, wander over to Museum Ludwig. If history-steeped sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Cologne Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-listed church is a favorite among visitors.

Frankfurt offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Old Market is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Cologne’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.

Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aachen in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Cologne is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Marktplatz Am Rathaus, a worthwhile public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Aachen Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Kreislauf Des Geldes. This art installation is one of the city’s most underrated spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Elisenbrunnen. After exploring the monument, head to the up-and-coming Suermondt-ludwig-museum. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, a place of visually striking interest in Cologne.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brussels’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 Brussels. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium 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 Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Churchill's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Station Bxl is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Delirium Café 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 5 of your European tour in Germany and Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Brussels, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Brussels for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Brussels in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today's adventure in Brussels promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Royal Palace Of Brussels. This standout palace is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Musée Magritte Museum, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Grand-place, one of the city’s most iconic attractions, known for its culturally significant features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This romantic shopping mall is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a notable church, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out Atomium before you head back to your hotel.

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. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Lobster House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Roumaine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Des Amis, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the night falls in Brussels, 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 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 1 vibrant destinations - Bruges in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Bruges where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Brussels on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved park, Minnewaterpark. Afterward, continue to Church Of Our Lady, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Brussels’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). This locally appreciated historical landmark is an essential stop. Following that, head to Groeninge, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Belfry Of Bruges, a notable monument in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a photogenic church that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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

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 Bruges’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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Groot Vlaenderen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bauhaus Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 't Brugs Beertje ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the night falls in Bruges, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Ghent in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bruges, including a castle, a church, and a monument. Start your adventure at Gravensteen. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Saint Nicholas' Church located in Bruges for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Belfry Of Ghent. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the grand features of this church.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Cologne. 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 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 wonderful meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RheinZeit. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Soul Bar Cologne, known for its lively atmosphere. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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 8 of your multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium, 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a public square, a historical landmark, a hiking area and much more! Begin your adventure at Heidelberg Castle. This is a widely recognized castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Karlsplatz, a locally appreciated public square in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Old Bridge Heidelberg. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Philosophers’ Way, another of the city’s intriguing attractions.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Zu den 12 Aposteln, a top-rated dining destination in Frankfurt. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chicago Meatpackers, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zum Gemalten Haus. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Frankfurt this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Rote Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Belfordfrankfurt is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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