7-Day Road Trip in Germany and the Netherlands from Frankfurt to Arnhem, Amsterdam, and Cologne

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands 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 2 nights.

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 Nizza. Around 6,147 visitors have rated this excellent urban park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Find your way to your hotel in Frankfurt. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Germany. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Frankfurt. 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.

Take your Frankfurt getaway to new heights by dining at Lafleur, a Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 2 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Lafleur consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern french and creative cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Frankfurt is Gustav, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Gustav’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Frankfurt and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, Seven Swans. Its delectable vegan and creative menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Kiwi’s - Café, Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,500 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Der Fette Bulle, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Der Fette Bulle captures hearts with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 5,097 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on o'reilly's Irish pubs, another local party gem in Frankfurt. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,367 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Your multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands 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.

On day 2, you will wake up in Frankfurt with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Frankfurt before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Germany and the Netherlands.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated botanical garden and attraction in Frankfurt — Palmengarten. About 18,771 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Alte Oper is another top sight in Frankfurt that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved concert hall in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,197 visitors.

Römerberg is a spectacular square and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Frankfurt, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,079 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Iron Footbridge. Because of its allure and charm, around 22,822 visitors have rated this attraction and sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Zoo Frankfurt. Echoing its popularity, 22,226 travelers have awarded this famous zoo and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

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.

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 Frankfurt'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 region’s most recommended bars.

Don't forget to book a table at Restaurant Klosterhof, a well-known eatery in Frankfurt. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,908 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Gaststätte Atschel while exploring Frankfurt. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,694 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ebbelwoi Unser, a popular restaurant in Frankfurt. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,355 discerning diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Oosten, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Oosten has earned an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,068 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,956 customers have rated their experience at Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Maincafé belongs to the list of the best bars in Frankfurt, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,409 bar-goers.

Take in the ambiance of Frankfurt 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 3 of your multi-country road trip across Germany and the Netherlands, 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 Arnhem in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Arnhem, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Frankfurt, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for the Netherlands! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arnhem may take around 4 hours 19 min.

It's time to hit the road and set sight on Arnhem. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing. In this one-of-a-kind city, you’ll find some of the region's most notable sights.

Netherlands Open Air Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Arnhem, 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 17,279 visitors. More than 524,188 people visit this extraordinary national museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Arnhem, don’t miss Royal Burgers' Zoo, a great zoo and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 34,736 reviews.

Jump into the car and set your direction on Ede. Once you arrive, make time to explore the city’s most popular attractions and learn something new today.

Something that makes Ede the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,671 visitors.

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

Arnhem 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 Arnhem. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Arnhem’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 Germany and the Netherlands.

Reserve your spot at 't Taphuys Arnhem, a popular local restaurant in Arnhem. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,793 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Roadhouse Arnhem Bar & Kitchen during your stay in Arnhem. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, by 1,500 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Vlees & CO Arnhem, a popular local gem in Arnhem. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 930 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Eetcafé Sint Jan, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Arnhem. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,538 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Caspar, consistently rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Sugar Hill, one of the top-rated bars in Arnhem, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 887 satisfied customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam. Amsterdam will be your home for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Arnhem, prepare for your next destination. Enjoy the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Amsterdam. Your travel time is around 1 hour 17 min.

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

Something that makes Amsterdam the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding national museum, Rijksmuseum. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 91,223 visitors and gets around 2,700,000 visits every year.

The famous Vondelpark is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Amsterdam's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 50,897 travelers have rated this incredible park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Amsterdam is also home to the extraordinary Van Gogh Museum, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 84,751 traveler reviews. This stunning art museum and local feature draws more than 2,161,160 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Anne Frank House, which hosts up to 1,195,456 visitors every year. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 64,974 reviews, a visit to this wonderful museum and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

Make more amazing memories during your vacation in Germany by adding tours and activities to your travel itinerary. Tours are another exciting way to experience the best of Amsterdam, immersing yourself in local customs and meeting new friends.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands 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 experiencing Box Sociaal, a renowned dining spot in Amsterdam. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,162 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Gartine while immersing yourself in Amsterdam. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 678 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Winkel 43, a beloved dining establishment within Amsterdam. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 10,504 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Proeflokaal Arendsnest. This famous bar in Amsterdam has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,048 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, The Cottage. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. The Cottage has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,252 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Restaurant Ambassade. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 769 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 5 of your multi-country journey across Germany and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands and Brühl 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 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kaatsheuvel today.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Cologne, Germany. This car ride takes around 4 hours 3 min.

Jump into the car and set your direction on Kaatsheuvel. Once you arrive, make time to explore the town’s most popular attractions and learn something new today.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kaatsheuvel is the fantastic Baron 1898. As an appreciated dive coaster and local gem in the area, Baron 1898 has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,459 reviews.

Jump into the car and drive to your next destination. When you arrive in Hilvarenbeek, it's time to take a well-deserved break from the road. This is your chance to tour the city’s most remarkable sights and top-rated attractions.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Hilvarenbeek is the magnificent Beekse Bergen. Around 27,094 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brühl is the fantastic Phantasialand, attracting around 1,750,000 visitors every year. As an appreciated amusement park and local gem in the area, Phantasialand has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 87,903 reviews.

To make your fun escapade in Kaatsheuvel, Germany even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

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

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Cologne's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany 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, Cologne has them.

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 looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Toddy Tapper, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 590 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 6,484 customers.

Gilden im Zims 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 5,823 customers.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Germany and the Netherlands. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to 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 Frankfurt. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Cologne Chocolate Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Cologne, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,145 visitors.

In Cologne, don’t miss Old Market, 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 12,654 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Cologne off your list when you visit the wonderful Cologne Cathedral. This popular sight is an outstanding catholic cathedral, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 68,667 travelers. Approximately 5,000,000 people visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Cologne Zoological Garden. This zoo and place of interest has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 29,743 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cologne and set your GPS to Frankfurt. 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 2 hours 7 min.

Hit the road and make your way to the next destination. Cologne, 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.

In Cologne, the extraordinary Cologne Chocolate Museum awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 36,145 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Cologne is the spectacular Old Market. This attraction is a sightseeing destination that is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,654 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Cologne Cathedral. This local catholic cathedral and wonder has an overall review score of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 68,667 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 5,000,000 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

Cologne Zoological Garden is another attraction you might want to add to your Cologne exploration itinerary. This zoo is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 29,743 reviews.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on your trip in Germany. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Cologne itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Add this highly recommended tour to your package now and make this refreshing day in Germany extra special!

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Mainkai Café, an iconic dining spot in Frankfurt. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,040 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Zum Gemalten Haus while in Frankfurt. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,641 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Ariston Restaurant, a favorite in Frankfurt. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,794 discerning guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Bananas Shisha Lounge, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Bananas Shisha Lounge has charmed many with its 4.8 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 746 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Champions Frankfurt, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Champions Frankfurt captures hearts with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 831 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt, another local party gem in Frankfurt. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 400 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 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 the Netherlands. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Germany unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Frankfurt’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the region’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Germany.

Something that makes Frankfurt the perfect holiday destination is that the region offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding skyscraper, MesseTurm. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,250 visitors.

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 the Netherlands.

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 7-day European road trip in Germany and the Netherlands with fond memories. Safe travels!