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

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

After soaking in Frankfurt’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 14 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Cologne is the magnificent Lindt Chocolate Museum. Around 37,446 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Old Market on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known public square that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 12,935 travelers.

The remarkable Cologne Cathedral is known to be one of the best places to visit in Cologne, and its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 70,814 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 5,000,000 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful Cologne Cathedral is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.

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.

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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Grid Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Toddy Tapper offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Brussels in Belgium. 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 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brussels, Belgium. This car ride takes around 2 hours 22 min.

Cinquantenaire is a travelers’ favorite in Brussels, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 visitors.

In Brussels, don’t miss St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a great church and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,282 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Brussels off your list when you visit the wonderful Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This popular sight is an outstanding shopping mall, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Grand-place. This public square and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,717 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Laeken, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A tour of Laeken is not complete without a visit to the famous Atomium. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 travelers.

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

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 Brussels'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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of BrewDog Brussels, a popular restaurant in Brussels. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of À La Mort Subite, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Churchill's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Station Bxl, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Delirium Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bruges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Minnewaterpark. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 9,916 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Minnewaterpark is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Church Of Our Lady is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This church and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,225 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing historical landmark, Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,360 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Sint-salvatorskathedraal, an outstanding park, is one place you should visit while in Bruges considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,623 travelers.

Explore the magnificent Belfry Of Bruges and discover what makes this local monument and wonder one of the best attractions in Bruges. This popular sightseeing destination enjoys a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 18,990 travelers.

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.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Bruges's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Belgium 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, Bruges has them.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining spot in Bruges. If you're in the mood for something new, try Het Visioen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at t'Lammetje. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bruges.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Groot Vlaenderen, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bauhaus Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bruges. 't Brugs Beertje is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands! 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.

On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Germany, Belgium, 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amsterdam, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bruges, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to the Netherlands. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Something that makes Amsterdam the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Anne Frank House. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,913 visitors and gets around 1,195,456 visits every year.

The famous Madame Tussauds Amsterdam is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Amsterdam's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 26,374 travelers have rated this incredible wax museum and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Amsterdam is also home to the extraordinary Dam Square, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 42,514 traveler reviews.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Amsterdam. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. 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 Excalibur Café, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Rosalia's Menagerie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café Hill Street Blues, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Düsseldorf 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Düsseldorf, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Düsseldorf may take around 2 hours 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Düsseldorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Düsseldorf, the extraordinary Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf awaits. This attraction is a valued boardwalk that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,015 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Düsseldorf is the spectacular Rheinpromenade. This attraction is a boardwalk that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,033 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Burgplatz. This local public square and wonder has an overall review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,559 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen is another attraction you might want to add to your Düsseldorf exploration itinerary. This art gallery is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,903 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Hofgarten. More than a popular park and attraction, Hofgarten offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Düsseldorf. Hofgarten boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,488 traveler reviews.

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.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Düsseldorf. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Engelchen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Cherie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Heidelberg in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Frankfurt, your home for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Heidelberg and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Heidelberg beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Heidelberg today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Heidelberg Castle. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,486 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Heidelberger Marktplatz. This incredible attraction and public square holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 7,790 visitors.

According to travelers in Heidelberg, the extraordinary Old Bridge Heidelberg is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and historical landmark is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,612 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible park, Neckarwiese (heidelberg). Up to 8,059 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

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, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Lohninger, 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 Apfelwein Dax, 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 Ariston Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Frankfurt tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Barkello Café Bar Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Jambo Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Cosy Bar 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!