7-Day Road Trip to Belgium and Germany from Brussels to Malmedy and Cologne

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels 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.

After a long journey to Brussels, we're here to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable start to your road trip adventure. Your first accommodation will be located in central Brussels, making sightseeing in the city effortless.

As the sun sets on day 1 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Brussels's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Belgium to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Brussels has them.

Enjoy a much-needed break at Le Bistro - Porte de Hal, one of the best restaurants in Brussels. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,790 customers.

The Lobster House is yet another of the top places to eat in the city. The Lobster House is known for serving a variety of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,528 diners.

Locals and travelers enjoy dining at Poechenellekelder, another well-loved restaurant in Brussels. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,331 guests, this restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in Belgium.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Delirium Café, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,478 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Poechenellekelder, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,331 customers.

Monk is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,758 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Belgium 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.

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Belgium and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Brussels for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Brussels — Parc du Cinquantenaire. About 32,486 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels is another top sight in Brussels that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved church in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,844 visitors.

Grand Place is a highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Brussels, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 137,865 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. Because of its allure and charm, around 36,827 visitors have rated this attraction and shopping mall an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Atomium. Echoing its popularity, 79,824 travelers have awarded this famous museum and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Brussels by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the region’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Brussels.

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.

Monk, a local-favorite in Brussels, offers great food and ambiance. This well-loved restaurant in the city has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,758 customers.

Another top-rated restaurant worth trying in Brussels is the popular Le Cirio. An excellent dining option in the city, Le Cirio enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,548 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the exciting selection of food and drinks at Le Marmiton. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,876 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Bar Des Amis. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,677 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,046 customers.

Barbeton cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. 1,044 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Brussels, 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.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Brussels, Ath, and Malmedy 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 Malmedy. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Leopold Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Leopold Park has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,572 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Museum of Natural Sciences, which is a museum that gets around 26,239 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,750 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Bois de la Cambre, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,091 reviewers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Malmedy. This drive usually takes around 3 hours and 14 minutes.

Upon your arrival in Brussels you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this region and discover some of its most popular sights.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Malmedy has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Belgium. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Malmedy’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 Belgium and Germany.

If you’re curious about the best restaurant in Malmedy, make sure to check out Boulangerie-pâtisserie Halmes. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 847 customers.

Alternatively, another top-rated restaurant in the city is Au Petit Chef. This one-of-a-kind restaurant is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 510 customers.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Rond Point, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Malmedy. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, backed by 130 delighted customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Rhineland-Palatinate and Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Cologne. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Rhineland-Palatinate today.

After soaking in Malmedy’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne, Germany. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 2 hours and 41 minutes.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Cologne, its culture, and people.

So be sure to reserve your slot early so you won’t miss the chance to join this highly recommended activity in Cologne.

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

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along your multi-country road trip in Belgium and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Cologne. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

This lovely Cologne-based restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,165 customers.

Another top-rated restaurant in Cologne is Gruber's. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 625 customers, this restaurant is truly a must-try.

If you want to eat at a place locals enjoy, go to Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,484 customers.

Spend the night downing a few shots of your favorite cocktail at Craftbeer Corner Coeln. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,165 customers.

Put your worries away as you toast to a fantastic night at Toddy Tapper. This famous bar in Cologne is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 590 customers.

If you want to check out another famous bar in the area, you’ll love ONA MOR Bar. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that will electrify your senses. ONA MOR Bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 548 customers.

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

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Cologne is the fantastic Cologne Chocolate Museum. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Cologne Chocolate Museum has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 28,752 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Old Market. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,413 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Cologne Cathedral, a standout church and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 57,506 reviewers, so it's no surprise that it attracts as many as 5,000,000 visitors annually.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 25,089 visitor reviews.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Cologne, Germany.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy 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 Belgium and Germany.

Le Moissonnier is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence with a Bib Gourmand award. Le Moissonnier, with a 2-star Michelin rating, has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature creative french and classic meals.

At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with an affordable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern and creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern french menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln boasts an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 6,484 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Gilden im Zims, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Gilden im Zims has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,823 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Gaststätte Lommerzheim. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5-star from 5,823 customers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in 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 just relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Duisburg in Germany and Antwerp and Brussels in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in Belgium. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Germany’s Cologne to the enchanting landscapes of Brussels. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 4 hours and 7 minutes without traffic disruptions.

When you reach Duisburg, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road and indulge in some sightseeing and adventure. Check out some of the top attractions in the region.

A tour of Duisburg is not complete without a visit to the famous Landschaftspark Duisburg-Nord. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 23,504 travelers.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the region!

Brussels has something for every interest and travel budget.

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 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.

We recommend you eat at a restaurant that locals enjoy, like The Blue Restaurant. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,345 customers.

Alternatively, check out the menu at Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery. Considered one of the best restaurants in Brussels, it has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,046 customers.

If you’re curious about more of the best restaurants in Brussels, Barbeton is one to check out. Barbeton is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,044 customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Little Delirium, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Little Delirium has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 648 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Churchill's, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Churchill's captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 688 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Green Lab, another local party gem in Brussels. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 572 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

As the night falls in Brussels, 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 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels 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 Belgium and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Mont des Arts. This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 13,218 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Mont des Arts is worth pages in your travel diary.

Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels 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 Belgium and Germany.

Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 742 customers, this restaurant is truly a must-try.

If you want to eat at a place locals enjoy, go to Comme Chez Soi. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 561 customers.

The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Belgium and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!