7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Belgium With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Antwerp and Brussels
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Description
Explore the Netherlands and Belgium on an epic 7-day European road trip. Amsterdam, Lisse, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, and Cambron-Casteau await!
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in the Netherlands and 2 nights in Belgium.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of the Netherlands, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Amsterdam and begin your adventure from there. Explore Amsterdam, Lisse, Rotterdam, Kaatsheuvel, and Breda, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Belgium. Immerse yourself in the allure of Antwerp, Ghent, Cambron-Casteau, Brussels, and Laeken, where every street tells a story.
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 the Netherlands and Belgium 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 the Netherlands and Belgium. 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 the Netherlands and Belgium.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Negen Straatjes
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Belgium begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Amsterdam for 3 nights.
Catch an early flight to the Netherlands to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Amsterdam 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.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Amsterdam today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Negen Straatjes. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,365 visitors.
Find your way to your hotel in Amsterdam. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in the Netherlands. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 the Netherlands and Belgium.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, CAU Steak Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Amsterdam.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Excalibur Café, known for its lively atmosphere. Rosalia's Menagerie is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Belgium 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
- Amsterdam
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Drive 22 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Artis
- NEMO Science Center
- Anne Frank House
- Vondelpark
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On day 2, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands and Belgium.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated zoo and attraction in Amsterdam — Artis. About 31,710 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The popular Nemo Science Center is another top sight in Amsterdam that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved science center in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 31,426 visitors.
Anne Frank House is a spectacular museum and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Amsterdam, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,913 enchanted visitors.
As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Vondelpark. Because of its allure and charm, around 51,706 visitors have rated this attraction and park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands 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.
Begin your culinary exploration in Amsterdam by securing a reservation at Flore. This renowned restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of contemporary and creative french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ciel Bleu, celebrated for its delectable creative menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Restaurant 212, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Café Oporto after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, 't Aepjen also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 3
- Amsterdam
- Lisse
- Rotterdam
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 49 min
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Keukenhof
- Diergaarde Blijdorp
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On day 3 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Amsterdam, 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
A tour of Amsterdam is not complete without a visit to the famous Rijksmuseum. This incredible museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 93,402 travelers, and is visited by 2,700,000 people every year.
Make the most of your Amsterdam travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Van Gogh Museum. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 86,536 travelers and gets around 2,161,160 annual visits.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Amsterdam, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Lisse may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Lisse, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
A tour of Lisse is not complete without a visit to the famous Keukenhof. This incredible garden and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 60,394 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Rotterdam, 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 Lisse to Rotterdam may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rotterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Rotterdam, including the outstanding Diergaarde Blijdorp. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,438 reviews, this fascinating zoo and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Loetje, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Moon? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen 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 Bar Bitterbal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Twenty Third Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Louis Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Amsterdam
- Kaatsheuvel
- Breda
- Antwerp
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Drive 200 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Efteling
- Baron 1898
- Stadspark Valkenberg
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Antwerp, your home for 1 night.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kaatsheuvel. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 23 min. When you arrive in Kaatsheuvel, it's time to take a break from the road.
A tour of Kaatsheuvel is not complete without a visit to the famous Efteling. This incredible amusement park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 118,060 travelers, and is visited by 5,400,000 people every year.
Make the most of your Kaatsheuvel travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Baron 1898. This amusement park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,520 travelers.
After soaking in Kaatsheuvel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Breda. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Breda, it's time to take a break from the road.
One place travelers keep coming back to in Breda is the magnificent Stadspark Valkenberg. Around 4,753 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Antwerp of your choice.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Antwerp. 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Antwerp by booking a table at Zilte, a 3-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to The Jane, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Hertog Jan at Botanic, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Antwerp. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Keep the evening going at Hopper, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dogma, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Basil, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Antwerp
- Ghent
- Cambron-Casteau
- Brussels
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Drive 189 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral
- Het Belfort van Gent
- Gravensteen
- Pairi Daiza
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On day 5 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 Ghent in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ghent. Your travel time is around 58 min.
Something that makes Ghent the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding church, Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,470 visitors.
The famous Belfry Of Ghent is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Ghent's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 7,470 travelers have rated this incredible monument and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in reviews.
Ghent is also home to the extraordinary Gravensteen, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 29,205 traveler reviews.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cambron-Casteau. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated zoo and attraction in Cambron-Casteau — Pairi Daiza. About 70,507 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Brussels. 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 Brussels. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
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 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.
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 6
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
- Amsterdam
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 23 min
- Grand-Place
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Brussels Park
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Atomium
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On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Brussels in Belgium. 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 1 night.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Grand-place. As an appreciated public square and local gem in the area, Grand-place has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,717 reviews.
Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,953 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!
Join countless others in discovering the allure of Brussels Park, a standout park and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,495 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.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brussels, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Laeken may take around 20 min. Upon your arrival in Laeken, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Laeken is the fantastic Atomium. As an appreciated monument and local gem in the area, Atomium has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 91,642 reviews.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Amsterdam. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
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 the Netherlands.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gartine, 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 Spirit Amsterdam, 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 FuLu Mandarijn, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Mokum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to De Zotte, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 7
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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- Dam Square
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On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Amsterdam 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 the Netherlands and Belgium. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
On your last day in the Netherlands, take time to indulge in shopping at Amsterdam’s popular marketplace, Kalverstraat. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Amsterdam today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Dam Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 42,514 visitors.
Get a last taste of the Netherlands’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Amsterdam 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 the Netherlands and Belgium.
The time has come to say farewell to Amsterdam 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 the Netherlands and Belgium with fond memories. Safe travels!
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