7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp, Cologne, and Amsterdam

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence Brussels in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Antwerp, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This symbolic church is sure to impress.

Laeken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Laeken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Atomium and explore the historic features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Antwerp may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Antwerp, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal is a captivating church we recommend visiting today. Discover its inviting features before continuing your self-guided tour to Antwerp Zoo, a visually striking zoo that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Rubenshuis, a photogenic museum.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Antwerp. 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 Antwerp boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Aspen, a highly-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're eager to try something different, consider De Zeven Schaken, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hopper is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Dogma, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Basil. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Antwerp in Belgium and 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.

One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Museum Aan De Stroom. This picture-perfect museum will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cologne, Germany. This car ride takes around 2 hours 12 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an increasingly popular sightseeing destination that everyone visiting Cologne should see. Next, head to Museum Ludwig. This heritage-rich museum is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Cologne Cathedral, a picture-perfect church popular among locals as well as travelers. Old Market is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this interesting public square before you continue your journey.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Cologne’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 Cologne’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, Germany, and the Netherlands.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SAVOY Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café Reichard. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cologne.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. Today's main destinations are Cologne in Germany and Amsterdam in the Netherlands, 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Lindt Chocolate Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable museum is a must-visit in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards the Netherlands, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Amsterdam. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Anne Frank House is a top-rated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Royal Palace Of Amsterdam, a historic palace that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Dam Square, a heritage-rich public square.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Amsterdam. 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 Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Excalibur Café, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Rosalia's Menagerie offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Café Hill Street Blues. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Zaandijk in the Netherlands and Leuven in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Zaandijk. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, a worthwhile handicraft store 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 The Zaansche Mill and admire its breathtaking features.

When you’ve had your share of Zaandijk, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Leuven, Belgium. Your travel time is around 2 hours 43 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Saint Peter's Church, an often recommended church in Leuven. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Brussels. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Savor the flavors at The Lobster House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Restaurant Roumaine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Des Amis, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Du Canal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Delirium offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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