11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Belgium With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Hoorn, Arnhem, Antwerp, Brussels, and Ghent

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Belgium, 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hoorn, where you will stay for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Amsterdam is the fantastic Anne Frank House, attracting around 1,195,456 visitors every year. As an appreciated museum and local gem in the area, Anne Frank House has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,913 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Artis, which is a zoo that gets around 1,400,000 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 31,710 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, a standout botanical garden and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,686 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Nemo Science Center. This science center is a highly recommended attraction in the city, attracting more than 502,990 visitors per year and boasting an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 31,426 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent This Is Holland, a popular flying theater and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 9,685 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Hoorn of your choice.

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

Make sure to book a table at Het Koffielokaal, a popular restaurant in Hoorn. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Hoorn at Himalaya Restaurant Hoorn, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Goos. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Hoorn tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Wout's Beer House. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Café 't Kroegie offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Barrels Pub & More, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Hoorn, 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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands and Belgium. 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 Arnhem where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Hoorn, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Amsterdam. Your travel time is around 39 min.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Rijksmuseum. This outstanding museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 2,700,000 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 93,402 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Rijksmuseum is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Van Gogh Museum is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum and tourist destination welcomes approximately 2,161,160 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 86,536 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Vondelpark. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,706 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Amstelveen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Amstelveen, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Amstelveen, including the outstanding Het Amsterdamse Bos. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,926 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Arneym, an iconic dining spot in Arnhem. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Goed Proeven, a popular restaurant in Arnhem. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Trattoria & Pizzeria Così Arnhem, a hidden gem nestled in Arnhem. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Pegasus Arnhem after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Davo Bar Arnhem for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Het Barretje No. 15 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

On day 4 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Arnhem, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Arnhem for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Arnhem in the Netherlands to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Arnhem — Sonsbeek Park. About 8,066 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The popular Royal Burgers' Zoo is another top sight in Arnhem that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved zoo in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 35,556 visitors.

Netherlands Open Air Museum is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Arnhem, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,800 enchanted visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arnhem, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Apeldoorn may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Apeldoorn, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Apenheul Primate Park is a travelers’ favorite in Apeldoorn, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 17,919 visitors.

Set your GPS to Apeldoorn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Apeldoorn beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Arnhem'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.

Savor the flavors at FortVier, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, JANS’ Arnhem beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sugar Hill. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Arnhem tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Classen. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Drunen in the Netherlands, 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 Antwerp. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Drunen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Drunen beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Drunen today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding The Loonse And Drunense Duinen National Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,633 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Drunen and set your GPS to Kaatsheuvel. 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 21 min. Upon reaching Kaatsheuvel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Kaatsheuvel today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Efteling. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 118,060 visitors and attracts around 5,400,000 curious travelers annually.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Baron 1898. This incredible attraction and amusement park holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8,520 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Antwerp. 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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Belgium, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Antwerp. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Have a memorable dining experience in Antwerp by booking a table at Zilte, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Antwerp, Hertog Jan at Botanic shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Nebo is known as a top local spot for its delicious contemporary and modern french cuisine in Antwerp. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hopper. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Dogma, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Basil provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Antwerp in Belgium. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brussels, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Antwerp, including the outstanding Museum Aan De Stroom. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 17,562 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Antwerp is also home to the captivating Antwerp Zoo, a local zoo considered one of the highlights of the city. About 23,131 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.4 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Arrondissement of Mechelen. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

In Arrondissement of Mechelen, the extraordinary Grote Markt awaits. This attraction is a valued public square that boasts an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7,078 travelers' reviews.

After soaking in Arrondissement of Mechelen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Muizen. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Muizen, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Planckendael Zoo. This outstanding zoo and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 965,000 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 19,009 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Planckendael Zoo is worth pages in your travel diary.

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

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 Brussels'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.

Discover the culinary delights of Brussels by securing a reservation at Barge. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of organic cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, renowned for its delicious modern and classic dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Bozar Restaurant, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern french and creative menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

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

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Belgium with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Brussels for your remaining 2 nights 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 Laeken in Belgium.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This outstanding church and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 19,282 travelers, a visit to the remarkable St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert is another of the village's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This shopping mall and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 38,953 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing public square, Grand-place. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,717 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg, an outstanding church, is one place you should visit while in Brussels considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,784 travelers.

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 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Laeken, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

A tour of Laeken is not complete without a visit to the famous Atomium. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 travelers.

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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Des Amis, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Little Delirium provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

On day 8, you will wake up in Brussels with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Brussels before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands and Belgium.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,963 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Museum For Natural Sciences Of Belgium, which is a museum that gets around 26,239 visits every year. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,372 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Autoworld Brussels, a standout museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,983 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Cinquantenaire. This park is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,771 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Brussels Park, a popular park and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 19,495 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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 the Netherlands and Belgium.

Make sure to book a table at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Brussels tonight.

Continue your lively evening at La Reserve, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Manneken Pis Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Addict Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Cambron-Casteau in Belgium. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ghent, your home 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 Cambron-Casteau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Pairi Daiza is a travelers’ favorite in Cambron-Casteau, 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 70,507 visitors. More than 2,000,000 people visit this extraordinary zoo and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

Set your GPS to Ghent and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ghent beckons with new experiences!

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Ghent is the fantastic Saint Bavo's Cathedral. As an appreciated church and local gem in the area, Saint Bavo's Cathedral has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,470 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Gravensteen. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,205 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Belfry Of Ghent, a standout monument and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,470 reviewers.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Ghent’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 the Netherlands and Belgium.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Ghent by booking a table at Publiek, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Vrijmoed, renowned for its delectable creative and modern dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit OAK, a local gem known for its delightful world and creative french cuisine in Ghent. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Keep the evening going at De Geus Van Gent, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Alchemist, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Hot Club Gent, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Ghent 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!