7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and Germany With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Ghent, and Cologne

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brussels in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Make time for Cinquantenaire, a locally renowned park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Musée Magritte Museum, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Brussels at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Grand-place. After exploring the public square, head to the captivating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Laeken. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Laeken, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Laeken is Atomium, an extraordinary monument that draws attention for its historic features.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Lobster House, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurant Roumaine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

Keep the evening going at Bar Des Amis, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Du Canal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Little Delirium, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bruges may take around 1 hour 23 min. Upon your arrival in Bruges, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Minnewaterpark is a worthwhile park we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Church Of Our Lady, a culturally significant church that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a symbolic historical landmark. End your sightseeing at Belfry Of Bruges, a captivating monument that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bruges. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium in a new light.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vlaminck '14, a highly-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're eager to try something different, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Groot Vlaenderen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bauhaus Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. Today's main destinations are Ghent 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 Ghent. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bruges and set your GPS to Ghent. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Ghent is Stam Ghent City Museum, an up-and-coming museum that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gravensteen, a historic castle that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Saint Nicholas' Church, an intriguing church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Belfry Of Ghent, a picture-perfect monument and the perfect final attraction in Ghent.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ghent’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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Maste Bvba, a top-rated dining spot in Ghent. If you're in the mood for something new, try Godot, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Patrick Foley's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Ghent.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, De Geus Van Gent stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Alchemist offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Hot Club Gent is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Cologne in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.

After soaking in Ghent’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne, Germany. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 47 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Ulrepforte and admire its heritage-rich features.

When you’re ready, continue to Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Museum Ludwig, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Cologne Cathedral, a picture-perfect place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

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

Dine in style at SAVOY Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Café Reichard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Grid Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Toddy Tapper is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate day 5 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 6 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Aachen in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brussels where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

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 Aachen. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

Savor the day by heading to Carolus Thermen, an often recommended spa that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Elisenbrunnen, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

Next, explore Aachen Cathedral, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Centre Charlemagne. This instagrammable museum is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Marktplatz Am Rathaus, a frequently visited public square you won’t want to miss.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Brussels. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this 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, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting La Reserve, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Manneken Pis Cafe, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Addict Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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!