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

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, 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 1 night.

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.

A tour of Amsterdam is not complete without a visit to the famous Dam Square. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 42,263 travelers.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Amsterdam. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in the Netherlands. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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, France, and Germany.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 Restaurant Ambassade. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Excalibur Café. Alternatively, go to Rosalia's Menagerie, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, 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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cologne, 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 Amsterdam to Cologne may take around 2 hours 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cologne, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Amsterdam, including the outstanding Anne Frank House. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,604 reviews and welcoming more than 1,195,456 visitors each year, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Amsterdam is also home to the captivating Van Gogh Museum, a local art museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 85,859 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 2,161,160 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Rijksmuseum is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Amsterdam. This extraordinary national museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 2,700,000 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,707 travelers.

After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne, Germany. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 54 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Cologne’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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 Limani, 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 Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. 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 going to a bar or two. Toddy Tapper is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Soul Bar Cologne, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Köln. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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, France, 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 Metz, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Cologne Cathedral. This outstanding catholic cathedral and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 5,000,000 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 69,905 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Cologne Cathedral is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Old Market is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This point of interest and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,740 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Cologne Chocolate Museum. With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,704 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brühl. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated amusement park and attraction in Brühl — Phantasialand. About 89,377 visitors have rated this attraction 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 Metz of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Metz. 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, France, and Germany.

Savor the flavors at CHEZ BAPTISTE, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Buffalo Grill Metz beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider L'Aloyau. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Metz tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Les BerThoM Metz stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Le Fo'Rhum offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Aux Paraiges is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Metz to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Paris in France, 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 Paris. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

In Paris, the extraordinary Jardin des plantes awaits. This attraction is a valued botanical garden that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 40,461 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Paris is the spectacular Jardin du Luxembourg. This attraction is an urban park that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 94,043 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Panthéon. This local mausoleum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 43,649 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Notre-Dame de Paris is another attraction you might want to add to your Paris exploration itinerary. This catholic cathedral is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,788 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 12,000,000 people.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at L'Imprévu Café, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Petit Châtelet, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Guy Savoy. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café de Paris V after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dirty Dick for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Little Red Door is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 5 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Paris. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Paris, including the outstanding Champ de Mars. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 172,488 reviews, this fascinating urban park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Paris is also home to the captivating Eiffel Tower, a local lattice tower considered one of the highlights of the city. About 322,389 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 6,207,303 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

The extraordinary Tuileries Garden is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Paris. This extraordinary garden and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,172 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Musée d'Orsay will inspire you as it does to more than 3,651,616 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing art museum and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 71,115 reviews.

Soak in Paris's rich culture at the fantastic Louvre Museum. Further proving its status as one of the best places to visit in Paris is its overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 260,788 visitor reviews. Every year, travelers of more than 2,825,000 in count gather around this fascinating art museum and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

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, France, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Paris’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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Saint James Paris, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at To Restaurant Paris. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Prescription Cocktail Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Sherry Butt is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Highlander offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Paris 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!

On day 6, you will wake up in Paris with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Paris before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Paris today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Sacré-Cœur. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 118,527 visitors and attracts around 11,000,000 curious travelers annually.

Next, discover the charms of the popular place de la Concorde. This incredible attraction and square holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 54,229 visitors.

According to travelers in Paris, the extraordinary Arc de Triomphe is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and triumphal arch gets around 2,743,823 visits annually and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Paris’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, France, and Germany.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alliance, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Bombardier offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bistrot Du Perigord is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Paris.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Tiger offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bisou. Is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Le Requin Chagrin is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the night falls in Paris, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Brussels in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brussels where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated urban park and attraction in Brussels — Cinquantenaire. About 35,271 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is another top sight in Brussels that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved shopping mall in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,465 visitors.

Grand-Place is a spectacular square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Brussels, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,037 enchanted visitors.

Upon reaching Laeken, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Laeken is the fantastic Atomium. As an appreciated history museum and local gem in the area, Atomium has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 90,942 reviews.

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

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, France, 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.

Make sure to book a table at BrewDog Brussels, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at À La Mort Subite, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Lobster House. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Brussels tonight.

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

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 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Rotterdam 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to the Netherlands. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated zoo and attraction in Rotterdam — Diergaarde Blijdorp. About 35,020 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Hague. This car ride takes around 23 min.

One place travelers keep coming back to in The Hague is the magnificent Louwman Museum. Around 9,908 visitors have rated this excellent automobile museum and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lisse, 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 The Hague to Lisse may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lisse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

In Lisse, the extraordinary Keukenhof awaits. This attraction is a valued garden that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 60,421 travelers' reviews.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Loetje, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gartine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at SkyLounge Amsterdam, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Louis Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Amsterdam. De Zotte is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 9 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, France, and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As you approach the end of your journey in the Netherlands, take a moment for some retail therapy in Amsterdam’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of the Netherlands, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of the Netherlands with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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, France, and Germany.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at FuLu Mandarijn, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Winkel 43? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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 9-day European road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!