7-Day Road Trip in Belgium and the Netherlands from Brussels to Amsterdam and Ghent

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.

A tour of Brussels is not complete without a visit to the famous Brussels Park. This incredible urban park and attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,075 travelers.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Brussels. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Barge, a local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Barge consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional organic cuisine.

Also highly recommended is La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, one of the best 2-star Michelin establishments in Brussels. Take your pick from the modern and classic menu, which has consistently earned La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Brussels and reserve a table at the 2-star Michelin restaurant, Bozar Restaurant. Its delectable modern french and creative offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Delirium Café, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Delirium Café has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 18,478 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at À La Mort Subite, a crowd-favorite. Around 4,691 customers have rated their experience at À La Mort Subite an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Poechenellekelder belongs to the list of the best bars in Brussels, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,331 bar-goers.

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.

On day 2, 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 Belgium and the Netherlands.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brussels is the fantastic Cinquantenaire. As an appreciated urban park and local gem in the area, Cinquantenaire has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 34,980 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Grand-Place. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 149,732 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, a standout shopping mall and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 38,005 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels. This church is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 18,728 visitor reviews.

While in Brussels, take the chance to join a popular tour to experience something one-of-a-kind during your getaway in Belgium. Check out all the tours Brussels offers, and personalize your vacation package to your preferences for an amazing day in the city.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Café Walvis, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,654 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Pasta Divina during your stay in Brussels. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,190 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Le Cirio, a renowned dining destination in Brussels. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,548 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Monk, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Monk boasts an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,758 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at La Porte Noire, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. La Porte Noire has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,483 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Bar Des Amis. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5-star from 1,483 customers.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Hilvarenbeek in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam. Amsterdam will be your home for 2 nights.

Amsterdam’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brussels behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 30 min.

When you're ready for a new adventure, get into the car and drive to your next destination. Upon reaching Hilvarenbeek, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Beekse Bergen. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.4 stars out of 5 from 27,094 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Beekse Bergen is worth pages in your travel diary.

When you start to long for the next destination, jump into the car and continue your journey. When you reach Haarzuilens, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road. Check out some of the top attractions in the village.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Castle de Haar. This outstanding château and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 17,114 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Castle de Haar is worth pages in your travel diary.

When you're ready to continue your journey, get into the car. As you arrive in Utrecht, slow down and say goodbye to the road for a while. Utrecht welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences. Stretch your arms and legs and head out into the city.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Utrecht, including the outstanding Dom Tower of Utrecht. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,176 reviews, this fascinating building and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Hilvarenbeek has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in Belgium. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

Reserve your spot at Box Sociaal, a popular local restaurant in Amsterdam. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,162 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Gartine during your stay in Amsterdam. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, by 678 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Winkel 43, a popular local gem in Amsterdam. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 10,504 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Amsterdam. At Proeflokaal Arendsnest, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,048 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at The Cottage, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,252 reviews.

Restaurant Ambassade is also one of the best places in Amsterdam where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 769 customers.

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.

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 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A tour of Amsterdam is not complete without a visit to the famous Vondelpark. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 50,897 travelers.

Make the most of your Amsterdam travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Van Gogh Museum. This art museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 84,751 travelers and gets around 2,161,160 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible Rijksmuseum for an experience worth remembering. This local national museum and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 91,223 visitors, with up to 2,700,000 people including this popular attraction in their Amsterdam tour itinerary each year.

Another stop we recommend you add to your Amsterdam sightseeing list is the remarkable zoo, Artis. Sought after by many travelers from around the world, Artis has received 4.5 out of 5 stars from 31,240 visitors. More than 1,400,000 people visit this impressive attraction annually.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Amsterdam by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Amsterdam.

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Brouwerij 't IJ, an acclaimed dining establishment in Amsterdam. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 7,092 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of The Pantry while experiencing the best of Amsterdam. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,646 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Restaurant Moeders, an elegant culinary destination in Amsterdam. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,647 previous guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend SkyLounge Amsterdam, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,266 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Excalibur Café. It is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,047 customers.

Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,918 customers.

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 5 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 Amsterdam in the Netherlands and Ghent in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Ghent, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Dam Square. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 42,081 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Dam Square is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Royal Palace of Amsterdam is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This royal palace and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22,585 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing museum, Anne Frank House, which hosts approximately 1,195,456 visitors per year. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 64,974 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump back into your car with a full heart, and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ghent, Belgium. Expect your car journey to last a minimum of 3 hours 2 min.

Set your GPS to Amsterdam and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring a new destination. Amsterdam beckons with new experiences!

Something that makes Amsterdam the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding square, Dam Square. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 42,081 visitors.

The famous Royal Palace of Amsterdam is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Amsterdam's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 22,585 travelers have rated this incredible royal palace and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Amsterdam is also home to the extraordinary Anne Frank House, which boasts a 4.5 out of 5 star rating in 64,974 traveler reviews. This stunning museum and local feature draws more than 1,195,456 visitors on an annual basis, captivating the hearts of travelers with its unique charm.

Jump into the car and set your direction on Lisse. Once you arrive, make time to explore the town’s most popular attractions and learn something new today.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Lisse today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Keukenhof. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 53,601 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Amsterdam by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Amsterdam.

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 Belgium and the Netherlands.

Reserve a table at Publiek, a 1 Michelin star restaurant and a dining establishment in Ghent. This epicurean hotspot’s delectable modern offering makes it a crowd favorite. Publiek is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in Ghent is Vrijmoed, which critics have graced with 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its creative and modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Vrijmoed’s culinary excellence.

Locals and foreign travelers alike recommend the popular Bib Gourmand restaurant, OAK. Captivated customers consistently praise this restaurant in Ghent for its appetizing selection of food, including its world and creative french courses. As a leading food haven, it boasts 1 Michelin stars for giving an unforgettable dining experience to its patrons.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Dulle Griet, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Dulle Griet has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 4,103 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Patrick Foley's, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Patrick Foley's captures hearts with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 3,180 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Trollekelder, another local party gem in Ghent. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,614 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Belgium and the Netherlands. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to 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 Brussels. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Ghent is the magnificent Belfry of Ghent. Around 7,358 visitors have rated this excellent point of interest and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Saint Bavo's Cathedral on this leg of your adventure in Belgium. This attraction is a well-known church that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 10,028 travelers.

The remarkable Gravensteen is known to be one of the best places to visit in Ghent, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,368 traveler reviews is proof.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Brussels. This car ride takes around 2 hours 25 min.

It's time to hit the road and set sight on Ghent. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing. In this one-of-a-kind city, you’ll find some of the region's most notable sights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ghent, including the outstanding Belfry of Ghent. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,358 reviews, this fascinating sightseeing destination and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Ghent is also home to the captivating Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a local church considered one of the highlights of the city. About 10,028 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Gravensteen is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Ghent. This extraordinary museum and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,368 travelers.

When you're ready for a new adventure, get into the car and drive to your next destination. Upon reaching Cambron-Casteau, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A tour of Cambron-Casteau is not complete without a visit to the famous Pairi Daiza. This incredible zoo and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 68,741 travelers, and is visited by 2,000,000 people every year.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the city!

Ghent has something for every interest and travel budget.

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.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Belgium and the Netherlands, 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.

Plan ahead and secure a table at Le Marmiton, an acclaimed dining establishment in Brussels. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,876 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of The Blue Restaurant while experiencing the best of Brussels. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,345 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of Le Pêcheur, an elegant culinary destination in Brussels. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 852 previous guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,046 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at Barbeton, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,044 customers have rated their experience at Barbeton an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Little Delirium belongs to the list of the best bars in Brussels, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 648 bar-goers.

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

On day 7 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.

As your final day in Belgium unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Brussels’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Belgium.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 14,523 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Mont des Arts - Kunstberg is worth pages in your travel diary.

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.

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