7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Lille, and Amsterdam
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Description
Get ready for an exhilarating 7-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Belgium, France, and the Netherlands and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Belgium, 1 night in France, and 1 night in the Netherlands.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Belgium, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Brussels and begin your adventure from there. Explore Brussels, Laeken, Bruges, and Ghent, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of France. Immerse yourself in the allure of Lille, where every street tells a story.
Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of the Netherlands. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Amsterdam.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Lille’s Old Stock Exchange and Amsterdam's iconic Rijksmuseum. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 7-day self-drive adventure in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Brussels - Arrival day
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Brussels in Belgium. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Brussels for 2 nights.
Catch an early flight to Belgium to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Brussels before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.
Find your way to your hotel in Brussels. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to 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.
Savor the flavors at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BrewDog Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider À La Mort Subite. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Churchill's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Station Bxl offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Brussels. Delirium Café is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Your multi-country road trip in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.
Day 2
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 27 min
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Atomium
- More
Greet day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Brussels in Belgium.
A tour of Brussels is not complete without a visit to the famous Cinquantenaire. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,771 travelers.
Make the most of your Brussels travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Grand-place. This public square and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 151,717 travelers.
You can then move on to the incredible Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert for an experience worth remembering. This local shopping mall and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 38,953 visitors.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Laeken, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. 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.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated monument and attraction in Laeken — Atomium. About 91,642 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Laeken. This car ride takes around 20 min.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Brussels's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Belgium to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Brussels has them.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Des Amis, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Du Canal is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Little Delirium also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Brussels
- Bruges
- More
Drive 96 km, 1 hour 47 min
- Minnewater Park
- Church of Our Lady
- Sint-Salvatorskathedraal
- Belfry of Bruges
- Burg
- More
On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Bruges in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bruges, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brussels, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bruges. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Minnewaterpark is a travelers’ favorite in Bruges, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,916 visitors.
In Bruges, don’t miss Church Of Our Lady, a great church and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,225 reviews.
Check other top attractions in Bruges off your list when you visit the wonderful Sint-salvatorskathedraal. This popular sight is an outstanding church, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,623 travelers.
Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Belfry Of Bruges. This monument and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 18,990 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Burg awaits. This public square is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,623 visitors.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Bruges. 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.
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, France, and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Bruges’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Het Visioen is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at t'Lammetje. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bruges tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Groot Vlaenderen, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bauhaus Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 't Brugs Beertje ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands! Enjoy your evening in Bruges to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 4
- Bruges
- Ghent
- Lille
- More
Drive 126 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Gravensteen
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Palais des Beaux Arts
- More
On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Ghent in Belgium and Lille in France. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Lille, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bruges 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 50 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Ghent today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Gravensteen. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 29,205 visitors.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Belfry Of Ghent. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 7,470 visitors.
According to travelers in Ghent, the extraordinary Saint Bavo's Cathedral is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,470 visitors.
Set your GPS to Lille, France and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 56 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lille beckons with new experiences!
One place travelers keep coming back to in Lille is the magnificent Palais Des Beaux-arts De Lille. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 239,975 travelers from across the world. Around 5,588 visitors have rated this excellent art museum and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Lille. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Lille. 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, France, and the Netherlands.
Make sure to reserve a table at Couvent des Minimes de Lille, an iconic dining spot in Lille. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Best Western Urban Hôtel - Rococo Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Lille. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Auberge Du Forgeron - Restaurant gastronomique, a hidden gem nestled in Lille. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Le Colbert Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Level Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Fridge Bar Lille offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take in the ambiance of Lille as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!
Day 5
- Lille
- Amsterdam
- More
Drive 292 km, 3 hours 59 min
- La Vieille Bourse
- Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Treille Cathedral at Lille
- Jardin Vauban
- Gare Saint Sauveur
- More
Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. Today's main destinations are Lille in France, 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Something that makes Lille the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding historical landmark, Old Stock Exchange. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,694 visitors.
The famous Musée De L'hospice Comtesse is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area, with up to 55,736 people visiting it every year. As one of Lille's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 1,188 travelers have rated this incredible museum and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Lille is also home to the extraordinary Notre-dame-de-la-treille Cathedral At Lille, which boasts a 4.3 out of 5 star rating in 4,752 traveler reviews.
Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Jardin Vauban. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from a total of 3,615 reviews, a visit to this wonderful park and tourist destination is truly a great idea.
On this Lille exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic Gare Saint Sauveur up close. This fascinating cultural center and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,038 travelers is proof.
After soaking in Lille’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 17 min. When you arrive in Amsterdam, it's time to take a break from the road.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.
As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.
Don’t miss out on dining at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Excalibur Café stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Rosalia's Menagerie offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Café Hill Street Blues is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Amsterdam
- Brussels
- More
Drive 236 km, 3 hours 25 min
- Dam Square
- Vondelpark
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Amsterdam in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Brussels where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Amsterdam is the magnificent Dam Square. Around 42,514 visitors have rated this excellent public square and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing Vondelpark on this leg of your adventure in the Netherlands. This attraction is a well-known park that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 51,706 travelers.
The remarkable Van Gogh Museum is known to be one of the best places to visit in Amsterdam, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,536 traveler reviews is proof. Attracting more than 2,161,160 visitors in a single year, it's clear that the wonderful Van Gogh Museum is a perfect add-on to your itinerary.
Dive deeper into Amsterdam by exploring the captivating Rijksmuseum, which draws the attention of nearly 2,700,000 visitors annually. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 93,402 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Amsterdam exploration list!
An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brussels’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.
As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Villa Lorraine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Le Marmiton offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bistro - Porte de Hal is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Brussels.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. La Reserve is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Manneken Pis Cafe, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Addict Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
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!
Day 7
- Brussels - Departure day
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Brussels before it’s time to leave.
Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in Belgium, take time to indulge in shopping at Brussels’s popular marketplace, Avenue Louise. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Get a last taste of Belgium’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Brussels and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Brussels for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands with fond memories. Safe travels!
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