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

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.

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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Begijnhof. This intriguing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rijksmuseum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Van Gogh Museum, one of the most astonishing places to see in Amsterdam. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Vondelpark. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this park offers.

Visit De Negen Straatjes in Amsterdam for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what De Negen Straatjes has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Oporto, known for its inviting atmosphere. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Amsterdam on today’s itinerary. First up is the extraordinary monument, Atomium. Afterward, continue to Royal Palace Of Brussels, a palace every traveler should visit.

As you explore Amsterdam’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Brussels Park. This interesting park is an essential stop. Following that, head to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a popular shopping mall in the village. Finally, end your day with a visit to Grand-place, an UNESCO world heritage-designated public square that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? BrewDog Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss À La Mort Subite. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Churchill's after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Station Bxl for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Delirium Café 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 Brussels to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Wake up to day 4 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 Bruges in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Brussels today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Minnewaterpark. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Church Of Our Lady and learn what makes this romantic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug). After exploring the historical landmark, head to Groeninge. This increasingly popular neighborhood is a highlight in Brussels. As your day continues, stop by Belfry Of Bruges, known for its romantic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the increasingly popular Basilica Of The Holy Blood. Enjoy exploring this incredible church at your own pace.

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

Savor the flavors at The Lobster House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Roumaine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

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

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.

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 2 nights.

Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Rheinboulevard, a visually striking boardwalk that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Museum Ludwig, one of the city’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral. When you're finished at the church, Old Market awaits your visit. This public square is a history-steeped highlight on today's itinerary.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Cologne. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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 SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

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

As the night falls in Cologne, 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.

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.

Start your adventure at Königsallee. This beloved street is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf located in Cologne for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Hofgarten. Its serene features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this art gallery. Next up is Burgplatz, a highly recommended public square. For a change of pace, head to Rheinpromenade. As one of the most up-and-coming attractions in Cologne, this boardwalk is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RheinZeit, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 - Maastricht in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Maastricht where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and photo-friendly spots in Cologne. Begin your sightseeing with Caves Zonneberg. This often recommended cave system is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Stadspark, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cologne, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Helpoort. This underrated historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Natural History Museum Of Maastricht, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Basilica Of Saint Servatius is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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 Maastricht. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dine in style at Bistrot-Bar 't Wycker Cabinet, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Café Local, lekker eten en drinken in Maastricht boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Onglet. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Maastricht.

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

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, 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 Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Maastricht, including a museum, a park, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day at Rietveld Schröder House. This UNESCO world heritage-listed museum is an increasingly popular place to see in Maastricht. Then, wander over to Nijntje Museum. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Park Lepelenburg. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

Maastricht offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dom Tower Of Utrecht is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the stunning St Martin's Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming church.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam'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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Moon is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice 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 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 Louis Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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!