5-Day Road Trip in Germany and Belgium from Frankfurt to Cologne and Brussels

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Germany and Belgium begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region of Frankfurt in Germany. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Frankfurt for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Germany to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Frankfurt before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Frankfurt is the magnificent Alte Oper. Around 13,197 visitors have rated this excellent concert hall and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Frankfurt. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Frankfurt. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Lafleur is the Bib Gourmand restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 2-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern french and creative meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Frankfurt, Gustav. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature creative dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Frankfurt you shouldn’t miss is Seven Swans. 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 vegan and creative menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,500 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Der Fette Bulle. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,097 customers.

O'reilly's Irish pubs 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 4,367 customers.

Your multi-country road trip in Germany and Belgium 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 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Frankfurt in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne. Cologne will be your home for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Frankfurt is the fantastic Römer. As an appreciated rathaus and local gem in the area, Römer has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,003 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Römerberg. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,079 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Iron Footbridge, a standout sightseeing destination and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,822 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Zoo Frankfurt. This zoo is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 22,226 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Palmengarten, a popular botanical garden and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 18,771 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Frankfurt, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 4 min.

When you start to long for the next destination, jump into the car and continue your journey. When you reach Frankfurt, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road. Check out some of the top attractions in the city.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Frankfurt is the magnificent Römer. Around 3,003 visitors have rated this excellent rathaus and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Römerberg on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known square that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 24,079 travelers.

The remarkable Iron Footbridge is known to be one of the best places to visit in Frankfurt, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,822 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Frankfurt by exploring the captivating Zoo Frankfurt. With a stellar average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 22,226 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Frankfurt exploration list!

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 Frankfurt, Germany.

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

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.

Reserve a table at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a dining establishment in Cologne. This epicurean hotspot’s delectable french and seafood offering makes it a crowd favorite. Le Moissonnier Bistro is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Cologne is Ox & Klee, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern and creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Ox & Klee’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend Zur Tant. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Cologne for its appetizing selection of food, including its classic courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Toddy Tapper, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Toddy Tapper has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 590 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln, a crowd-favorite. Around 6,484 customers have rated their experience at Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Gilden im Zims belongs to the list of the best bars in Cologne, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,823 bar-goers.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Germany and Belgium. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Cologne in Germany and Brussels in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Brussels. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

In Cologne, the extraordinary Old Market awaits. This attraction is a valued sightseeing destination that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,654 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Cologne, which gets around 5,000,000 annual visits, is the spectacular Cologne Cathedral. This attraction is a catholic cathedral that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 68,667 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

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 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to continue your journey, get into the car. As you arrive in Cologne, slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while. Cologne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the city.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cologne today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Old Market. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,654 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Cologne Cathedral. This incredible attraction and catholic cathedral holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 68,667 visitors. Up to 5,000,000 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

Set your GPS to Brussels and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring a new destination. Brussels beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. This outstanding shopping mall and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 38,005 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Grand-Place is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This square and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 149,732 travelers.

Hit the road and make your way to the next destination. Laeken - Laken, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its most popular attractions.

A tour of Laeken - Laken is not complete without a visit to the famous Atomium. This incredible history museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 89,664 travelers.

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.

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

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

Elevate your stay in Brussels by dining at this Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 2 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern and classic cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Brussels is Bozar Restaurant, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting atmosphere and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern french and creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to Bozar Restaurant’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at La Villa in the Sky. This celebrated dining spot in Brussels is renowned for its creative meals and creative and organic menu. Countless guests have praised this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star status.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Delirium Café. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 18,478 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous À La Mort Subite. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,691 customers.

Poechenellekelder cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 2,331 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

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

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Germany and Belgium, 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 Brussels in Belgium and Koblenz in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brussels is the magnificent Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. Around 14,523 visitors have rated this excellent square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Brussels Park on this leg of your adventure in Belgium. This attraction is a well-known urban park that has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 19,075 travelers.

The remarkable Cinquantenaire is known to be one of the best places to visit in Brussels, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,980 traveler reviews is proof.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brussels, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Germany! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Frankfurt may take around 4 hours 35 min.

Hit the road and make your way to the next destination. Brussels, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its most popular attractions.

A tour of Brussels is not complete without a visit to the famous Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,523 travelers.

Make the most of your Brussels travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Brussels Park. This urban park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,075 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Cinquantenaire for an experience worth remembering. This local urban park and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,980 visitors.

When you're ready for a new adventure, get into the car and drive to your next destination. Upon reaching Koblenz, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Deutsches Eck is a travelers’ favorite in Koblenz, 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 33,451 visitors.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Germany, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience Brussels's unique culture.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Frankfurt. 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.

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 Germany and Belgium by rewarding yourself with a taste of Frankfurt’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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Restaurant Klosterhof. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Frankfurt has received a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from around 2,908 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Gaststätte Atschel should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Frankfurt, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,694 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Ebbelwoi Unser. This highly regarded restaurant in Frankfurt has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 2,355 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Oosten, a must-visit hotspot in the region of Frankfurt. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 4,068 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Maincafé, one of the top-rated bars in Frankfurt, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,409 satisfied customers.

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

Optimize your last day in Germany and go on a shopping spree in Frankfurt’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Germany, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Frankfurt, including the outstanding Nizza. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,147 reviews, this fascinating urban park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the region.

Get a last taste of Germany’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Frankfurt 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 Germany and Belgium.

The time has come to say farewell to Frankfurt for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 5-day European road trip in Germany and Belgium with fond memories. Safe travels!