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

On day 2 of your European tour in Belgium and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Laeken, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the village, including Laeken in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

Sablon/Zavel is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Laeken, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the village.

Catch St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels before the crowds roll in. This grand church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Musée Magritte Museum, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Royal Palace Of Brussels, a captivating palace. For a change of scene, check out Cinquantenaire, known for its stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Laeken. This drive usually takes around 26 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Atomium. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Lobster House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Roumaine. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Bruges in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bruges, your home for 1 night.

Bruges’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Bruges welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Minnewaterpark, a frequently visited park that everyone visiting Bruges should see. Next, head to Church Of Our Lady. This romantic church is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), a majestic historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Groeninge is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this underrated neighborhood before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Belfry Of Bruges, a romantic monument and a top attraction in the city.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vlaminck '14, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Visioen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, t'Lammetje is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bruges.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Groot Vlaenderen, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bauhaus Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 't Brugs Beertje, another top-rated place in the area.

As the night falls in Bruges, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Antwerp 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 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Antwerp and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Antwerp beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rubenshuis and explore the historic features. Next, make your way to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, another highlight in Antwerp. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Groenplaats, a standout public square.

Nearby, you will also find Museum Plantin-moretus. This up-and-coming museum is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Brabo's Monument, a picture-perfect monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Antwerp's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try De Zeven Schaken, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

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

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

On day 5, you will wake up in Antwerp with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Antwerp before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Belgium and Germany.

Red Star Line Museum leaves a lasting impression. This museum is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Antwerp. Next, head to Museum Aan De Stroom, an interesting museum, known for its respected features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Antwerp Zoo. This instagrammable zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Middelheim Museum Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Antwerp’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 delicious dinner at Ciro's, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Het Pomphuis offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Antwerp.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Delux is an excellent place to start. You could also check out 't Waagstuk, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Den Hopsack. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and Germany. Today's main destinations are 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

After soaking in Antwerp’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 14 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 beloved point of interest 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 Rhine Garden Sculpture and admire its romantic features.

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

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

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

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.

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

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!

Day 7 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Cologne. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Set aside time today to explore Schildergasse, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Belgisches Viertel, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

Make time for Cologne Zoological Garden, an interesting zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Deutsches Sport & Olympia Museum, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most interesting spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cologne at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Media Park Köln Mbh.

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

Dine in style at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out RheinZeit. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cologne.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Soul Bar Cologne stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

As the night falls in Cologne, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie 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 8 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Dinant in Belgium. 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’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dinant, Belgium. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Belgium. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 30 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Citadelle De Dinant. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Pont Charles De Gaulle. This up-and-coming sightseeing destination is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Notre Dame De Dinant. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Brussels. 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 Belgium and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’s local cuisine.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to La Reserve, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Manneken Pis Cafe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Addict Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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