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

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.

Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit De Pijp, a popular neighborhood in Amsterdam. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Whatever your travel style is, Vondelpark is an essential stop in Amsterdam. This widely recognized park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Van Gogh Museum, a respected museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rijksmuseum, a widely recognized museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Sarphatipark.

As the sun sets, 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.

Dine in style at Eye Film Museum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Ambassade boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Oporto, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 't Aepjen also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Laeken in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Laeken, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Laeken may take around 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Atomium. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Laeken and set your GPS to Brussels. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Brussels, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a well-known church that everyone visiting Brussels should see. Next, head to Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This romantic shopping mall is one of the most well-known attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Grand-place, an enchanting public square popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, BrewDog Brussels is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at À La Mort Subite. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

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.

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!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Brussels. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

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.

Cinquantenaire leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Brussels. Next, head to Brussels Park, a locally renowned park, known for its visually striking 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 Royal Palace Of Brussels. This picture-perfect palace is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Musée Magritte Museum and Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Brussels's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Lobster House, 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 o'reilly's Irish Pub 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 Restaurant Roumaine, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Des Amis is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Du Canal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Little Delirium. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include 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.

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.

Set your GPS to Cologne, Germany and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cologne beckons with new experiences!

Next, continue your sightseeing at Rheinboulevard, a curiosity-inducing boardwalk.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Museum Ludwig and uncover the details of this instagrammable museum. Make sure to also explore Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church.

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 sets, 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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Grid Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Toddy Tapper, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Legends Bar & Terrasse. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 Cologne to the fullest!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Amsterdam. This car ride takes around 2 hours 30 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sint Servaasbrug, an increasingly popular monument in Maastricht. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Basilica Of Saint Servatius. This increasingly popular church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Stadspark is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most eye-catching park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the often recommended Caves Zonneberg and discover what makes this cave system unique.

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.

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 Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

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

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

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