7-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Belgium With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Antwerp and Brussels

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!

In Amsterdam, the extraordinary Rijksmuseum awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 93,402 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 2,700,000 visitors every year, the amazing Rijksmuseum is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

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 a museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 86,536 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

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.

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 60,394 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Keukenhof is worth pages in your travel diary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lisse and set your GPS to Rotterdam. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Rotterdam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

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.

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.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands and Belgium! 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 relaxing.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ghent, 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 Antwerp to Ghent may take around 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ghent, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Ghent today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,470 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 Gravensteen is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 29,205 visitors.

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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cambron-Casteau today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Pairi Daiza. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 70,507 visitors and attracts around 2,000,000 curious travelers annually.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Brussels by booking a table at Barge. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of organic cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, celebrated for its delectable modern and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Bozar Restaurant, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Churchill's after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Station Bxl for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Delirium Café is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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 - Brussels in Belgium. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Amsterdam where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Brussels, including the outstanding Grand-place. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,717 reviews, this fascinating public square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Brussels is also home to the captivating Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a local shopping mall considered one of the highlights of the city. About 38,953 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Brussels Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Brussels. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,495 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Cinquantenaire will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,771 reviews.

Set your GPS to Laeken and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Laeken beckons with new experiences!

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Laeken the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding monument, Atomium. This local gem has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 91,642 visitors.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam. 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 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.

Dine in style at Gartine, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Spirit Amsterdam boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out FuLu Mandarijn. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Mokum, known for its lively atmosphere. De Zotte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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!