9-Day Road Trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany from Amsterdam to Antwerp, Brussels, and Cologne

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Amsterdam in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A tour of Amsterdam is not complete without a visit to the famous Anne Frank House. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,913 travelers, and is visited by 1,195,456 people every year.

Make the most of your Amsterdam travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Van Gogh Museum. This art museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 86,536 travelers and gets around 2,161,160 annual visits.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to Lisse. 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 36 min. Upon reaching Lisse, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A tour of Lisse is not complete without a visit to the famous Keukenhof. This incredible garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 60,394 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rotterdam, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lisse to Rotterdam may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rotterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Diergaarde Blijdorp is a travelers’ favorite in Rotterdam, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,438 visitors.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Antwerp boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Belgium.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Zilte in Antwerp by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Zilte delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Hertog Jan at Botanic, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Nebo, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for contemporary, and modern french cuisine in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hopper, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Dogma offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Basil provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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 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 Ghent in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Antwerp, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ghent. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Saint Bavo's Cathedral is a travelers’ favorite in Ghent, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,470 visitors.

In Ghent, don’t miss Belfry Of Ghent, a great point of interest and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,470 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Ghent off your list when you visit the wonderful Gravensteen. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,205 travelers.

Set your GPS to Cambron-Casteau and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cambron-Casteau beckons with new experiences!

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Cambron-Casteau is the fantastic Pairi Daiza, attracting around 2,000,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated zoo and local gem in the area, Pairi Daiza has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 70,507 reviews.

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

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 an outstanding dining experience at Barge, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional organic menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, known for its delicious modern, and classic cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Brussels is Bozar Restaurant, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern french, and creative menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Churchill's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Station Bxl is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Delirium Café is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

Greet day 5 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 Brussels 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 Brussels in Belgium.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brussels is the magnificent Cinquantenaire. Around 35,771 visitors have rated this excellent urban park and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Grand-place on this leg of your adventure in Belgium. This attraction is a well-known square that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 151,717 travelers.

The remarkable Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is known to be one of the best places to visit in Brussels, and its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 38,953 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Brussels by exploring the captivating St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,282 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Brussels exploration list!

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

Atomium is a travelers’ favorite in Laeken, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 visitors.

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 Brussels’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 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.

Keep the evening going at Bar Des Amis, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Du Canal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Delirium, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Kerkrade in the Netherlands, and Brühl in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 2 nights.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Kerkrade, the Netherlands. 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 1 hour 36 min. Upon reaching Kerkrade, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Kerkrade is the magnificent Gaiazoo. Around 16,311 visitors have rated this excellent zoo and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kerkrade, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Brühl may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Brühl, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated amusement park and attraction in Brühl — Phantasialand. About 91,824 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brühl and set your GPS to Königswinter. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Königswinter, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Schloss Drachenburg. This outstanding château and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 17,667 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Schloss Drachenburg is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Cologne's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Moissonnier Bistro in Cologne by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Moissonnier Bistro offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious french, and seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ox & Klee, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern, and creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at La Cuisine Rademacher, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

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.

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!

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Koblenz in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Koblenz. This car ride takes around 1 hour 19 min.

Something that makes Koblenz the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding fortress, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,566 visitors.

The famous Deutsches Eck is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Koblenz's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 34,555 travelers have rated this incredible headland and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Alken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Koblenz behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Alken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Alken, including the outstanding Thurant Castle. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,266 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Keldung, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Alken to Keldung may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Keldung, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Keldung — Eltz Castle. About 25,367 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cologne. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Виетнамски ресторант "Кучи Мами" offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, RheinZeit is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soul Bar Cologne, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Cologne, including the outstanding Cologne Cathedral. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 70,814 reviews and welcoming more than 5,000,000 visitors each year, this fascinating catholic cathedral and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Cologne is also home to the captivating Lindt Chocolate Museum, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 37,446 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.3 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Cologne Zoological Garden is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Cologne. This extraordinary zoo and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 30,676 travelers.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Amsterdam. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated dining spot in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Moon, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Amsterdam.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Bitterbal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Twenty Third Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Skylounge Amsterdam, 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!