4-Day Road Trip from Frankfurt to Brussels: Culture, Cuisine, and City Exploration

Day 1: Frankfurt to Cologne

Frankfurt to Cologne, Germany on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Karin, Frankfurt

Enjoy a traditional German breakfast with fresh bread rolls, cheeses, and coffee at this popular local café open from 7am.
EUR 15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Cologne

Begin your 2-hour scenic drive from Frankfurt to Cologne, enjoying the German countryside along the A3 motorway.
EUR 30 toll and fuel approx., 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage cathedral with its stunning Gothic architecture and panoramic city views from the tower. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR 5, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Früh am Dom

Savour traditional Cologne dishes and local Kölsch beer near the cathedral in this historic brewery restaurant.
EUR 20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax at the Rhine River Promenade

Take a leisurely stroll along the river promenade for lovely views and street performances.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Check into Hotel in Cologne

Settle into your accommodation near the city centre to rest before dinner.
EUR 150 per room approx., 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hans im Glück

Enjoy gourmet burgers and a lively atmosphere at this popular German burger chain, open until 11pm.
EUR 25, 1h30m

Day 2: Cologne to Liège

Cologne, Germany to Liège, Belgium on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bastian’s, Cologne

Start your day with delicious coffee and artisan pastries at Bastian’s Bakery, open from 7:30am.
EUR 12, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Liège

Travel approximately 1.5 hours from Cologne to Liège, crossing into Belgium and admiring the changing landscapes.
EUR 20 petrol approx., 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Liège Old Town and Carré District

Wander through historic streets rich with Baroque architecture and vibrant cafes. The Carré offers lively shops and nightlife.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Bistrot d’en Face

Relish authentic Belgian cuisine with local ingredients in this charming bistro, open 12pm-2pm.
EUR 25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Liège-Guillemins Railway Station

Admire the futuristic architecture by Santiago Calatrava, a must-see modern landmark in Liège.
Free, 0h30m

3:15pm

Check in at Liège Hotel

Rest and freshen up before evening exploration.
EUR 130 per room approx., 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Maison Leblanc

A fine dining spot offering contemporary Belgian dishes with excellent wine pairing, open until 10pm.
EUR 40, 2h0m

Day 3: Liège to Brussels

Liège to Brussels, Belgium on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Galette Enchantée, Liège

Enjoy freshly made Belgian waffles with a variety of toppings at this local favourite available from 8am.
EUR 12, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Brussels

Depart for a 1.5-hour drive west to Belgium’s capital city, perfect for your final destination.
EUR 20 petrol approx., 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Grand Place

Explore Brussels’ iconic central square with stunning guildhalls and the famous Town Hall – a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Chez Léon

Taste traditional moules-frites, a classic Belgian dish, at this well-known Brussels brasserie open 12pm-3pm.
EUR 25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Manneken Pis

See the famous little statue symbolising Brussels' humour and spirit, just a short walk from Grand Place.
Free, 0h30m

3:00pm

Check into Brussels hotel

Relax and prepare for evening activities.
EUR 160 per room approx., 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Noordzee Mer du Nord

Enjoy fresh seafood and casual dining at this popular Brussels outdoor seafood bar, open until 10pm.
EUR 30, 1h30m

Day 4: Brussels Culture Day

Brussels, Belgium on May 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien

Enjoy organic bread, pastries, and coffee to start your day in this well-known Belgian bakery chain.
EUR 15, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Magritte Museum

Explore the surrealist art of René Magritte in this dedicated museum open 10am-5pm, closed Tuesdays.
EUR 12, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk through Parc de Bruxelles

Relax in the city's largest public park located near the Royal Palace, ideal for a peaceful stroll.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Metropole

Enjoy classic Belgian and French dishes in this elegant historic café open for lunch 12pm-3pm.
EUR 25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Atomium

Explore the iconic 102-metre tall Atomium structure and museum open 10am-6pm, showcasing exhibitions and panoramic city views.
EUR 16, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel

Rest before your evening dinner and possible night stroll.
Included in lodging, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Roue d’Or

Indulge in authentic Belgian cuisine in an Art Deco setting near Grand Place, open till 11pm.
EUR 35, 2h0m