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

Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and the Netherlands 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 Brussels in Belgium. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 3 nights in the city later today.

Experience Cinquantenaire, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Musée Magritte Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Brussels, and when you are ready for more, go to Grand-place. This is one of the city’s most globally renowned enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the locally renowned Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. Not far away, you'll also find St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This church is a breathtaking highlight in Brussels.

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 Brussels to Laeken may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Atomium is a spectacular monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its masterful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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 the Netherlands.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Roumaine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Des Amis, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Du Canal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Delirium. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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.

On day 3 of your European tour in Belgium and the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Ghent, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Ghent in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 2 nights more.

Whether you decide to explore Ghent 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 Sint-Baafsplein, a popular street in Ghent. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Ghent. 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 58 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Saint Bavo's Cathedral and explore the stunning features. Next, make your way to Belfry Of Ghent, another highlight in Ghent. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to Gravensteen, an instagrammable castle.

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Brussels. 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 Belgium and the Netherlands.

Make sure to reserve a table at Villa Lorraine, an iconic dining spot in Brussels. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Le Marmiton, a popular restaurant in Brussels. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Le Bistro - Porte de Hal, a hidden gem nestled in Brussels. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting La Reserve, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Manneken Pis Cafe is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Addict Bar 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!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Belgium and the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bruges in Belgium. With 1 night left in Brussels, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bruges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Bruges is Basilica Of The Holy Blood, a beloved church that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Belfry Of Bruges, a symbolic monument that stands out in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Antwerp. This car ride takes around 1 hour 22 min.

Savor the day by heading to Rubenshuis, a curiosity-inducing museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Antwerp Zoo, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pasta Divina, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Brussels off Grand Place offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Au Soleil. After your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Au Brasseur for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across Belgium and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Rotterdam 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.

Rotterdam’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 51 min. Rotterdam welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Erasmusbrug, a captivating monument in Rotterdam. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Amsterdam. This drive usually takes around 1 hour, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Vondelpark. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Van Gogh Museum. This impressive museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Anne Frank House. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Dam Square, a popular 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try CAU Steak Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Excalibur Café, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Rosalia's Menagerie is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Café Hill Street Blues also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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!