One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Brussels and Cologne

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

Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit De Pijp, a popular neighborhood in Amsterdam. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Visiting Begijnhof is always a good idea. This locally appreciated historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Rijksmuseum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Van Gogh Museum. This widely recognized museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Vondelpark, where you can take in romantic features.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Amsterdam. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Eye Film Museum, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Ambassade? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.

Continue your lively evening at Café Oporto, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 't Aepjen ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, 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 Laeken in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Belgium! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Laeken may take around 2 hours 25 min. Upon your arrival in Laeken, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Laeken and set your GPS to Brussels. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Brussels, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Royal Palace Of Brussels, a popular palace in Brussels. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Brussels Park. This notable park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most stunning church in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the captivating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert and discover what makes this shopping mall unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the village, head to Grand-place, a majestic public square many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Churchill's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Station Bxl, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the night falls in Brussels, 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.

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, 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 Bruges in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Whether you decide to explore Bruges on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

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 22 min. Upon your arrival in Bruges, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Belfry Of Bruges, a well-known monument that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Basilica Of The Holy Blood, where you can soak in the photogenic surroundings.

Next, explore Bruges City Hall, yet another worthwhile place to see in the area. After the city hall, make time to go to Groeninge. Lastly, head to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), an intriguing historical landmark you won’t want to miss.

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Des Amis, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 4 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 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 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cologne, Germany. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an underrated 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 Museum Ludwig and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Cologne Cathedral, a widely recognized church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Old Market, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cologne’s local cuisine.

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!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip through the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Düsseldorf in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cologne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Düsseldorf. This drive usually takes around 44 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Königsallee, an underrated street known for its awe-inspiring features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf, an intriguing well.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Hofgarten and uncover the details of this serene park. Make sure to also explore Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, an often recommended art gallery. For your last stop, consider Burgplatz, an enchanting public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami"? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RheinZeit as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cologne.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cologne. Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sint Servaasbrug and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to Basilica Of Saint Servatius, another highlight in Maastricht. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Stadspark, an eye-catching park.

Nearby, you will also find Caves Zonneberg. This up-and-coming cave system is a top place to see in the area.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam'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 meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Moon is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Bitterbal, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Twenty Third Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Louis Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam 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!