One-Week Road Trip in Belgium and the Netherlands from Brussels to Amsterdam

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Belgium 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.

In Brussels, the extraordinary Brussels Park awaits. This attraction is a valued urban park that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,267 travelers' reviews.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Brussels. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Brussels boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Belgium.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at BrewDog Brussels, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try À La Mort Subite? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Lobster House as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Brussels.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Churchill's. Alternatively, go to Delirium Café, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Des Amis provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Your multi-country road trip in Belgium 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 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Brussels. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Brussels, including the outstanding Cinquantenaire. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,271 reviews, this fascinating urban park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Brussels is also home to the captivating Grand-Place, a local square considered one of the highlights of the city. About 151,037 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Brussels. This extraordinary shopping mall and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 38,465 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing church and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,958 reviews.

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 and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try Le Marmiton, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Little Delirium, known for its lively atmosphere.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and the Netherlands. Today's main destinations are Ghent in Belgium, 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 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cambron-Casteau, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ghent. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A tour of Ghent is not complete without a visit to the famous Belfry of Ghent. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,404 travelers.

Make the most of your Ghent travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Ghent City Hall. This town hall and unique destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,103 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brussels and set your GPS to Cambron-Casteau. 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 1 hour 4 min. Upon reaching Cambron-Casteau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated zoo and attraction in Cambron-Casteau — Pairi Daiza. About 69,456 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Amsterdam boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Belgium.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, 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 CAU Steak Restaurant, 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 Restaurant Ambassade, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Excalibur Café, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rosalia's Menagerie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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!

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Belgium and the Netherlands has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

In Amsterdam, the extraordinary Vondelpark awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,399 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Amsterdam, which gets around 2,161,160 annual visits, is the spectacular Van Gogh Museum. This attraction is an art museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 85,859 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Rijksmuseum. This local national museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 92,707 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 2,700,000 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

Artis is another attraction you might want to add to your Amsterdam exploration itinerary. This zoo is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 31,524 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 1,400,000 people.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central 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 Belgium and the Netherlands.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Loetje, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gartine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting SkyLounge Amsterdam, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Louis Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. De Zotte likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Wake up to day 5 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 Lisse in the Netherlands. With 2 nights left in Amsterdam, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Amsterdam, including the outstanding Anne Frank House. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,604 reviews and welcoming more than 1,195,456 visitors each year, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Amsterdam is also home to the captivating Dam Square, a local square considered one of the highlights of the town. About 42,263 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary NEMO Science Center is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Amsterdam. This extraordinary science museum and tourist hot spot hosts more than 502,990 visitors annually and boasts a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 30,969 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lisse, 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 Amstelveen to Lisse may take around 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lisse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Keukenhof. This outstanding garden and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 60,421 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Keukenhof is worth pages in your travel diary.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Amstelveen. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Het Amsterdamse Bos. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 16,712 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Het Amsterdamse Bos is worth pages in your travel diary.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Belgium's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at FuLu Mandarijn, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Winkel 43, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Pantry. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cafe Stevens is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Proeflokaal Arendsnest ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 6 of your European tour in Belgium and the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Arnhem, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Amsterdam for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arnhem in the Netherlands to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arnhem. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive in Arnhem, it's time to take a break from the road.

Sonsbeek Park is a travelers’ favorite in Arnhem, 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 7,972 visitors.

In Arnhem, don’t miss Netherlands Open Air Museum, a great national museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,497 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 524,188 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

Check other top attractions in Arnhem off your list when you visit the wonderful Royal Burgers' Zoo. This popular sight is an outstanding zoo, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 35,061 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ede, 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 Arnhem to Ede may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ede, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Ede — Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe. About 11,738 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Amsterdam’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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar-B Burgers ‘N’ Beers, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Blue Amsterdam offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Brouwerij 't IJ. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Cafe Belgique is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Red Light Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Belgium and the Netherlands! Enjoy your evening in Amsterdam to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium 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 North Brabant in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to North Brabant. 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 1 hour 16 min. Upon reaching North Brabant, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

In North Brabant, the extraordinary St John's Cathedral awaits. This attraction is a valued church that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,606 travelers' reviews.

A tour of Hilvarenbeek is not complete without a visit to the famous Beekse Bergen. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 27,337 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kaatsheuvel. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Kaatsheuvel is the fantastic Baron 1898. As an appreciated dive coaster and local gem in the area, Baron 1898 has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,478 reviews.

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

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 and the Netherlands by rewarding yourself with a taste of Brussels’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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Pasta Divina, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Walvis is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brussels tonight.

As the night falls in Brussels, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 8 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 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. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Belgium. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Belgium forever.

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 and the Netherlands.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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 8-day European road trip in Belgium and the Netherlands with fond memories. Safe travels!