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

On day 3 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 Laeken in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Amsterdam, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Laeken, Belgium. Your travel time is around 2 hours 25 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Laeken today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Atomium. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Laeken, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brussels may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Brussels, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Brussels today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Cinquantenaire. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This incredible attraction and church holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 19,282 visitors.

According to travelers in Brussels, the extraordinary Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and shopping mall is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible public square, Grand-place. Up to 151,717 visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

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

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 4 of your European tour in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bruges, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Brussels for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bruges in Belgium to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bruges’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Bruges welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Something that makes Bruges the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Minnewaterpark. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,916 visitors.

The famous Church Of Our Lady is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Bruges's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 9,225 travelers have rated this incredible church and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Bruges is also home to the extraordinary Sint-salvatorskathedraal, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 6,623 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Belfry Of Bruges. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 18,990 reviews, a visit to this wonderful monument and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Bruges exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Burg up close. This fascinating public square and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,623 travelers is proof.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Lobster House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Roumaine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

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

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne, Germany. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Germany. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Cologne, including the outstanding Lindt Chocolate Museum. Having an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,446 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Cologne is also home to the captivating Cologne Cathedral, a local church considered one of the highlights of the city. About 70,814 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 5,000,000 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Old Market is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Cologne. This extraordinary public square and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,935 travelers.

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

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 Cologne. 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 SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Düsseldorf in Germany.

After soaking in Cologne’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Düsseldorf. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 40 min. When you arrive in Düsseldorf, it's time to take a break from the road.

A tour of Düsseldorf is not complete without a visit to the famous Kunstsammlung. This incredible art gallery and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,341 travelers.

Make the most of your Düsseldorf travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This boardwalk and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,015 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Rheinpromenade for an experience worth remembering. This local boardwalk and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,033 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Hofgarten. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 6,488 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Utrecht in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Amsterdam where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Maastricht, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Utrecht may take around 1 hour 59 min. Upon your arrival in Utrecht, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Utrecht — Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum. About 13,825 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The popular Park Lepelenburg is another top sight in Utrecht that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved park in the area, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,911 visitors.

St Martin's Cathedral is a spectacular church and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Utrecht, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,869 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Dom Tower Of Utrecht. Because of its allure and charm, around 7,336 visitors have rated this attraction and monument an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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

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. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Savor the flavors at Café Loetje, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Moon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

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.

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