7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Brussels and Cologne
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 7-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.
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 the Netherlands, 2 nights in Belgium, and 1 night in Germany.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of the Netherlands, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Amsterdam and begin your adventure from there. Explore Amsterdam and Maastricht, 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 and Brussels, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Germany. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Cologne.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Laeken’s Atomium and Cologne's iconic Cologne Cathedral. 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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany 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 7-day self-drive adventure in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. 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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Anne Frank House
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to the Netherlands to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Amsterdam 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.
Amsterdam 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 Anne Frank House, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Amsterdam. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Excalibur Café stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rosalia's Menagerie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Hill Street Blues is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany 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
- Amsterdam
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Vondelpark
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Sarphatipark
- De Pijp
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On day 2, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
De Pijp is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Amsterdam, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Today's adventure in Amsterdam promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Vondelpark. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Van Gogh Museum, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rijksmuseum, one of the city’s most widely recognized attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Sarphatipark. This mesmerizing park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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 Amsterdam. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Eye Film Museum, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Oporto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 't Aepjen provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Amsterdam
- Brussels
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Drive 208 km, 2 hours 55 min
- Atomium
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Grand-Place
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Laeken 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 Brussels. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Amsterdam, including a monument, a church, a shopping mall, a public square and much more! Start your day at Atomium. This remarkable monument is an impressive place to see in Amsterdam. Then, wander over to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This standout shopping mall is a favorite among visitors.
Amsterdam offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Grand-place is a globally renowned spot in the village 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 Brussels of your choice.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, 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 BrewDog Brussels, 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 À La Mort Subite. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Churchill's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Station Bxl offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Delirium Café provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.
Day 4
- Brussels
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Drive 10 km, 42 min
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Brussels Park
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Musée Magritte Museum
- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
- Sablon/Zavel
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Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Brussels. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Sablon/Zavel, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Brussels. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Brussels today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Cinquantenaire. This historic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Brussels Park and learn what makes this enchanting park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Royal Palace Of Brussels. After exploring the palace, head to Musée Magritte Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a highlight in Brussels. As your day continues, stop by Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg, known for its visually striking features.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Roumaine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands, 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.
Day 5
- Brussels
- Cologne
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Drive 222 km, 2 hours 48 min
- Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
- Rheinboulevard
- Museum Ludwig
- Cologne Cathedral
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On day 5 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. This worthwhile sightseeing destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rheinboulevard, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Museum Ludwig, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Brussels. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cologne Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this church offers.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Cologne.
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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cologne’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 SAVOY Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Reichard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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!
Day 6
- Cologne
- Amsterdam
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Drive 329 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Sint Servaasbrug
- Basilica of Saint Servatius
- Stadspark
- Caves Zonneberg
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Maastricht in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Cologne covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a church, a park, a cave system and much more! Start your adventure at Sint Servaasbrug. This often recommended monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Basilica Of Saint Servatius, a must-see church 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 Stadspark. This curiosity-inducing park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Caves Zonneberg, where you can take in picturesque features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Amsterdam. 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.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Loetje, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Moon? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Bitterbal. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Twenty Third Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Louis Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Amsterdam to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 7
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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- Dam Square
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Amsterdam 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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam's best shopping area, P. C. Hooftstraat. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to the Netherlands. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Dam Square, a photogenic public square before you head out.
Get a last taste of the Netherlands’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Amsterdam 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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Spirit Amsterdam, another premier location with a delectable menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Amsterdam for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!
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