12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Frankfurt to Cologne, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Muenster, Bremen, and Hamburg

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Germany and the Netherlands. 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. 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. Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is the first of them. Rheinboulevard is your next stop. This up-and-coming boardwalk 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 Museum Ludwig. This photogenic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cologne Cathedral and Old Market.

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.

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 the Netherlands.

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.

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 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Düsseldorf in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Schloss Benrath. This locally renowned palace is a visually striking place to see in Cologne. Continue your discovery at Königsallee, an enchanting street with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cologne, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. This curiosity-inducing art gallery offers a picture-perfect encounter with Cologne. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cologne.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Amsterdam’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 Germany 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.

Savor the flavors at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, CAU Steak Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Excalibur Café, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rosalia's Menagerie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Café Hill Street Blues, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 5 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Amsterdam. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

A visit to Jordaan in Amsterdam is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Amsterdam today. One of the most top-rated attractions included on the itinerary is Vondelpark. This remarkable park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Van Gogh Museum and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the astonishing Rijksmuseum. After exploring the museum, head to Dam Square. This popular public square is a highlight in Amsterdam.

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 the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Ambassade is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Oporto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 't Aepjen offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Utrecht in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Muenster, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Rotterdam’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Dom Tower Of Utrecht. This culturally significant monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rietveld Schröder House, an often recommended museum.

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

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 the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Muenster’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 delicious dinner at Cuba - Club und Bar Münster, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Schloßtheater Münster offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cafe Extrablatt Münster Königsstraße. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Muenster.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Extrablatt Münster Aegidiimarkt, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Atelier, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Spooky's likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Muenster 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!

Wake up and see what day 9 of your great European road trip in Germany and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Bremen for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Start your day with a visit to Schnoor. This captivating street is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bremen, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bremen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Bremen Roland, a frequently visited monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Town Musicians Of Bremen and Bremen Town Hall (ensemble). End your day with a visit to Übersee-museum Bremen, an underrated museum that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bremen. 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 Gaststätte Kleiner Olymp, a top-rated dining destination in Bremen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Jürgenshof, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Q1 - Metropolitan Kitchen & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bremen this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wohnzimmer Bremen, known for its inviting atmosphere. König Lounge is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cottons Pub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the night falls in Bremen, 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 10 of your multi-country journey across Germany and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Hamburg in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Hamburg where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Start at the top-rated Miniatur Wunderland, an instagrammable museum in Bremen. Next, go to Elbe Philharmonic Hall.

After visiting Miniatur Wunderland and Elbe Philharmonic Hall, have a stroll along Bremen's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St. Pauli Piers. This romantic pier offers a unique experience. Elbe Tunnel is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Planten Un Blomen, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Bremen.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Hamburg. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, SuRolls offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, bona'me is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Hamburg.

Continue your lively evening at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Scandic Hamburg Emporio is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heritage Hamburg Rooftop Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Lübeck 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.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Hamburg, including a restaurant, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Café Niederegger - Stammhaus. This picture-perfect restaurant is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Hamburg. Then, wander over to Lübeck Cathedral. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Museum Of Nature And Environment. This instagrammable museum is a favorite among visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Zu den 12 Aposteln, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chicago Meatpackers, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zum Gemalten Haus, a hidden gem nestled in Frankfurt. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Rote Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Helium Frankfurt Am Main, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Belfordfrankfurt, 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 Frankfurt to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.