9-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 3 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.

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.

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 the Netherlands 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.

Elevate your stay in Frankfurt by dining at this Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant. Renowned for its prestigious 2 Michelin-star rating and a variety of mouthwatering dishes, Gustav consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative cuisine.

Another popular dining spot in Frankfurt is Lafleur, 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 Lafleur’s culinary excellence.

If you’re in the mood to try something different, consider reserving a table at Erno's Bistro. This celebrated dining spot in Frankfurt is renowned for its creative meals and classic french and modern menu. Countless guests have praised this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star status.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned o'reilly's Irish pubs, 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 4,367 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Oosten, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Bar Helium Frankfurt am Main, one of the top-rated bars in Frankfurt, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,956 satisfied customers.

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.

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

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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 the Netherlands 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Klosterhof, 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 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,908 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Gaststätte Atschel while in Frankfurt. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,694 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Ebbelwoi Unser, 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 2,355 discerning guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Maincafé. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,409 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at SenSaSion Bar & Restaurant Frankfurt. This popular bar in Frankfurt is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 400 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Gleis 25. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Gleis 25 has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 503 reviews.

As the night falls in Frankfurt, 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 3, 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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Frankfurt’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Germany and the Netherlands.

Don't forget to book a table at Mainkai Café, 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 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,040 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Zum Gemalten Haus while exploring Frankfurt. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,641 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of African Queen Restaurant, 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 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,731 discerning diners.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Frankfurt. At Cafe & Bar Celona Frankfurt, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 4,183 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Chicago Meatpackers, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 3,198 reviews.

Flemings Hotel Frankfurt-Central (former Flemings Express Frankfurt) is also one of the best places in Frankfurt where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 2,883 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Frankfurt in Germany and Arnhem in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Arnhem, your home for 2 nights.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Frankfurt is the magnificent Rebstockpark. Around 3,817 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Schwanheimer Dünen on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 1,420 travelers.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Frankfurt, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Frankfurt may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Frankfurt, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’ve had your share of Frankfurt, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Duisburg. Your travel time is around 2 hours 30 min.

When you’ve had your share of Duisburg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Arnhem, the Netherlands. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Arnhem. 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 Arnhem. 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.

Make a reservation at 't Taphuys Arnhem, a popular dining spot in Arnhem. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,793 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Eetcafé Sint Jan while indulging in the charm of Arnhem. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 1,538 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Caspar, a treasured establishment in Arnhem. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 928 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Sugar Hill, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 887 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Irish Pub Mick O'Connells. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 888 customers.

STAN Arnhem is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 2,560 customers.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip through Germany and the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Arnhem in the Netherlands. With 1 night left in Arnhem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated zoo and attraction in Arnhem — Royal Burgers' Zoo. About 35,061 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Netherlands Open Air Museum is another top sight in Arnhem that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved national museum in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,497 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Arnhem and set your GPS to Apeldoorn. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Apeldoorn, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ede. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Set your GPS to Arnhem and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arnhem beckons with new experiences!

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 the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Arnhem’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.

Don't miss out on experiencing Anne & Max, a renowned dining spot in Arnhem. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 922 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Miyagi & Jones Arnhem while immersing yourself in Arnhem. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 575 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of First Eet, a beloved dining establishment within Arnhem. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 148 satisfied customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend JANS’ Arnhem, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 904 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Brasserie Falstaff. It is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 373 customers.

The Pegasus Arnhem is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 198 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.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Germany and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Amsterdam 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.

After soaking in Arnhem’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Amsterdam. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive in Amsterdam, it's time to take a break from the road.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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 the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’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.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Box Sociaal. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Amsterdam boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 2,162 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Amsterdam is Restaurant Ambassade. It has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 769 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Gartine, in Amsterdam. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 678 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, SkyLounge Amsterdam. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. SkyLounge Amsterdam has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,266 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Excalibur Café. 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 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,047 customers.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 to Cologne where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kaatsheuvel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Brühl is the magnificent Phantasialand. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 1,750,000 travelers from across the world. Around 89,377 visitors have rated this excellent amusement park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

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 Brühl to Cologne may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 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.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Le Moissonnier Bistro consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional french and seafood cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Ox & Klee, one of the best 2-star Michelin establishments in Cologne. Take your pick from the modern and creative menu, which has consistently earned Ox & Klee high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Cologne and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, La Cuisine Rademacher. Its delectable modern french offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Toddy Tapper, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Toddy Tapper boasts an impressive 4.9 out of 5-star rating from 590 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,484 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Gilden im Zims. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5-star from 6,484 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 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 8 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Frankfurt, where you will stay for 1 night.

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 36,704 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 12,740 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Cologne Cathedral, a standout catholic cathedral and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 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 30,118 visitor reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Frankfurt. Your travel time is around 2 hours 7 min.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Germany and the Netherlands, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Ariston Restaurant, 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 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,794 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Römer Pils Brunnen while in Frankfurt. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,818 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Zeil Kitchen | Vegan Restaurant, Cafe, Catering & Eventlocation in Frankfurt am Main, 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 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,926 discerning guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Frankfurt. At Roomers, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,482 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Metropol am Dom - Café & Restaurant, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 1,468 reviews.

Bananas Shisha Lounge is also one of the best places in Frankfurt where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 746 customers.

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 9 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.

On your last day in Germany, take time to indulge in shopping at Frankfurt’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, region’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Germany. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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