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

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.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore De Pijp, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Amsterdam. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Begijnhof is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic historical landmark is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rijksmuseum, another must-visit landmark and spectacular museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Amsterdam by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Van Gogh Museum. This historic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Amsterdam experience. We also recommend visiting Vondelpark, an extraordinary park.

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 Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Eye Film Museum, an iconic dining spot in Amsterdam. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Ambassade, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Oporto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!

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.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Laeken.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Laeken, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Laeken may take around 2 hours 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Atomium, an astonishing monument known for its culturally significant features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brussels. This car ride takes around 22 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Royal Palace Of Brussels, a well-known palace 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 Brussels Park and admire its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready, continue to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels, a locally renowned church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Grand-place, a visually striking 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 Brussels of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? BrewDog Brussels offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss À La Mort Subite. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Brussels.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Churchill's, known for its inviting atmosphere. Station Bxl is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Delirium Café provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 4 of your European tour in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bruges, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Bruges in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bruges. This car ride takes around 1 hour 23 min.

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

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Lobster House, 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 o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, 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 Restaurant Roumaine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Brussels tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Des Amis, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Du Canal offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Little Delirium 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 the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Brussels to the fullest!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, 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.

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

Next, make your way to Rheinboulevard, another highlight in Cologne. When you’re done exploring the boardwalk, continue to Museum Ludwig, a photogenic museum.

Nearby, you will also find Cologne Cathedral. This extraordinary church is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Old Market, a romantic public square that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at SAVOY Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café Reichard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Grid Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Toddy Tapper provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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!

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!

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Düsseldorf.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Düsseldorf, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Düsseldorf may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Düsseldorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Düsseldorf is Königsallee, an often recommended street that draws attention for its visually striking features.

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 Hofgarten, a frequently visited park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, a nearby art gallery, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Burgplatz, an instagrammable public square and the perfect final attraction in Düsseldorf.

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.

Savor the flavors at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider RheinZeit. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cologne tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Soul Bar Cologne, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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 Maastricht 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 Maastricht, the Netherlands. Your travel time is around 1 hour 24 min.

Caves Zonneberg is a worthwhile cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Stadspark, a mesmerizing park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Helpoort, a historic historical landmark. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Natural History Museum Of Maastricht, a historic and truly unique museum. End your sightseeing at Basilica Of Saint Servatius, an increasingly popular church that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Maastricht. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bistrot-Bar 't Wycker Cabinet, a top-rated dining destination in Maastricht. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Café Local, lekker eten en drinken in Maastricht, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Onglet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Maastricht this evening.

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

Take in the ambiance of Maastricht 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Utrecht in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Maastricht, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Utrecht. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Rietveld Schröder House, an underrated museum 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 Nijntje Museum and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Park Lepelenburg, a curiosity-inducing park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Dom Tower Of Utrecht, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find St Martin's Cathedral, a stunning place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Amsterdam 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 Café Loetje, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant Moon offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, d'Vijff Vlieghen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Amsterdam.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Bitterbal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Twenty Third Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Louis Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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!