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

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Brussels in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Brussels on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known park, Cinquantenaire. Afterward, continue to Musée Magritte Museum, a museum 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 Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This beloved museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Grand-place, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a notable shopping mall in the city. Finally, end your day with a visit to Atomium, a breathtaking monument that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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 The Lobster House, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Des Amis, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Little Delirium provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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!

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 Bruges in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, your home for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Brussels today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Minnewaterpark. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Our Lady and learn what makes this history-steeped church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). After exploring the historical landmark, head to Groeninge. This frequently visited neighborhood is a highlight in Brussels. As your day continues, stop by Belfry Of Bruges, known for its romantic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the frequently visited Basilica Of The Holy Blood. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

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 Belgium and Germany 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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Groot Vlaenderen is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bauhaus Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 't Brugs Beertje. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 Belgium and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ghent in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Ghent, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Bruges covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a castle, a church, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Stam Ghent City Museum. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Gravensteen, a must-see castle in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Saint Nicholas' Church. This intriguing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Saint Bavo's Cathedral, where you can take in stunning features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Belfry Of Ghent. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Ghent. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Ghent'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, Ghent has them.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at De Geus Van Gent, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Alchemist. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Hot Club Gent, another top-rated place in the area.

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 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. 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.

Today's adventure in Ghent promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, enjoy Ulrepforte, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Lindt Chocolate Museum, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Museum Ludwig. This historic museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cologne Cathedral, a famous church, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at SAVOY Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café Reichard, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at The Grid Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Toddy Tapper, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Legends Bar & Terrasse, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany, 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 Aachen in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cologne. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Carolus Thermen is the perfect place to start. This spa is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Cologne. Next, head to Elisenbrunnen, a beloved monument, known for its instagrammable 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 Aachen Cathedral. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Centre Charlemagne and Marktplatz Am Rathaus. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Ponttor, a culturally significant monument in Cologne.

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

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 Brussels. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, 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 Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like La Reserve, known for its lively atmosphere. Manneken Pis Cafe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Addict Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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