9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Belgium and the Netherlands With Itinerary from Brussels to Bruges, Rotterdam, and 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 1 night in the city later today.

Brussels is brimming with adventures.

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 Brussels Comics Figurines Museum. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited remarkable spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the wondrous Grand-place. Not far away, you'll also find Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This shopping mall is a standout highlight in Brussels.

Laeken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Laeken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Atomium, an impressive monument that everyone visiting Laeken should see.

As the sun sets, 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.

Dine in style at The Lobster House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Restaurant Roumaine. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Brussels.

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

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.

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 Bruges. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

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 52 min. Upon reaching Ghent, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Muinkpark, a frequently visited park that everyone visiting Ghent should see. Next, head to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This historic church is one of the most locally renowned attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Belfry Of Ghent, a respected monument popular among locals as well as travelers. Saint Nicholas' Church is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this worthwhile church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Gravensteen, a picture-perfect castle and a top attraction in the city.

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

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Bruges. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at Vlaminck '14, a top-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Het Visioen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at t'Lammetje. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Groot Vlaenderen after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bauhaus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 't Brugs Beertje 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!

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Bruges. Enjoy time off the road as you have 1 night left in the city.

Visiting Basilica Of The Holy Blood is always a good idea. This increasingly popular church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Belfry Of Bruges, a must-see monument in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Groeninge. This underrated neighborhood offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Boniface Bridge (bonifaciusbrug), where you can take in symbolic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Church Of Our Lady and Minnewaterpark These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Bruges. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Belgium in a new light.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bistro Den Amand, a top-rated dining destination in Bruges. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider That's Toast, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Petite Aneth. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bruges this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at De Garre. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to 't Poatersgat, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Vintage provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take in the ambiance of Bruges 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 5 of your multi-country road trip across Belgium and the Netherlands, 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 Antwerp in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rotterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Antwerp, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bruges to Antwerp may take around 1 hour 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Antwerp, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Groenplaats. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal. This popular church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Rubenshuis. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Antwerp Zoo, an interesting zoo.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Rotterdam. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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 Rotterdam'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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a highly-rated dining destination in Rotterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Little V Rotterdam, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dudok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rotterdam this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mendoza after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wunderbar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, De Witte Aap is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Belgium and the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence Rotterdam in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Markthal Tours is an ideal stop early in the day. This frequently visited food market is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Erasmusbrug, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Rotterdam on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Kunsthal, an often recommended art gallery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Diergaarde Blijdorp.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.

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 Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

Dine in style at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, CAU Steak Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Excalibur Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rosalia's Menagerie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Hill Street Blues 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!

On day 7, 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 Belgium and the Netherlands.

Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam 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 Jordaan, a popular neighborhood in Amsterdam. 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.

Experience Vondelpark, a spectacular park in the city. Then, head to Van Gogh Museum and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Amsterdam, and when you are ready for more, go to Rijksmuseum. This is one of the city’s most impressive respected spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the well-known Dam Square.

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Oporto, known for its lively atmosphere. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 't Aepjen offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!