12-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Belgium With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Maastricht, and Eindhoven

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Belgium, 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 Utrecht in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rotterdam, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rotterdam, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Utrecht to Rotterdam may take around 53 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rotterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a curiosity-inducing monument that everyone visiting Utrecht should see. Next, head to Utrecht Botanic Gardens. This stunning botanical garden is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rotterdam, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Rotterdam may take around 52 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rotterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Erasmusbrug and explore the enchanting features. Next, make your way to Cube House, another highlight in Rotterdam. When you’re done exploring the art installation, continue to Markthal Tours, a detailed food market.

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

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 Rotterdam.

Savor the flavors at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Little V Rotterdam beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Dudok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rotterdam tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Mendoza, known for its lively atmosphere. Wunderbar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, De Witte Aap offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take in the ambiance of Rotterdam 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!

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

Set your GPS to Antwerp, Belgium 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. Antwerp beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Museum Aan De Stroom, an interesting museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal and admire its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re ready, continue to Antwerp Zoo, a captivating zoo beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Groenplaats, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aspen, a top-rated dining spot in Antwerp. If you're in the mood for something new, try De Zeven Schaken, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Graanmarkt 13. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Antwerp.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hopper, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Dogma offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Antwerp. Bar Basil is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll soak in the magnificence Laeken 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 2 nights.

Laeken’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Antwerp behind. This drive usually takes around 45 min. Laeken welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Atomium is a famous monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking in Laeken’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Brussels. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 22 min. When you arrive in Brussels, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Royal Palace Of Brussels, a notable palace known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Musée Magritte Museum, a frequently visited museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels and uncover the details of this picture-perfect church. Make sure to also explore Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert, a locally renowned shopping mall. For your last stop, consider Grand-place, an enchanting public square that many travelers find worth the detour.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Brussels’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider BrewDog Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at À La Mort Subite. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Churchill's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Station Bxl, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Delirium Café 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!

On day 7 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Belgium, you’ll start and end your day in Bruges, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Bruges in Belgium. Brussels remains your base for 1 night more.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bruges may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Bruges, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Burg. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the public square before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Basilica Of The Holy Blood. This beloved church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Belfry Of Bruges. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Church Of Our Lady, a curiosity-inducing church. Conclude your sightseeing at De Halve Maan Brewery, known for its visually striking features.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Lobster House, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Roumaine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Des Amis, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Du Canal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Little Delirium offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Ghent 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ghent. This car ride takes around 58 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a captivating church known for its symbolic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Sint-michielsbrug, a worthwhile historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Gravensteen and uncover the details of this stunning castle. Make sure to also explore St. Jacob's Church, a frequently visited church. For your last stop, consider Belfry Of Ghent, a culturally significant monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Belgium's delectable cuisine at one of Ghent'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.

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at De Geus Van Gent after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Alchemist for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Hot Club Gent is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the night falls in Ghent, 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 9 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 Maastricht in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Maastricht where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for the Netherlands! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Maastricht may take around 2 hours 1 min. Upon your arrival in Maastricht, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Maastricht is Caves Zonneberg, a beloved cave system that draws attention for its idyllic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Helpoort, a standout historical landmark that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Basilica Of Our Lady, an underrated church that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Sint Servaasbrug, a nearby monument, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Basilica Of Saint Servatius, a historic church and the perfect final attraction in Maastricht.

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

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 Maastricht’s local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bistrot-Bar 't Wycker Cabinet, a highly-rated dining destination in Maastricht. If you're eager to try something different, consider Café Local, lekker eten en drinken in Maastricht, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Onglet. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Maastricht this evening.

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

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

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Eindhoven.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Maastricht, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Eindhoven. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stadswandelpark, Eindhoven. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Van Abbemuseum. This worthwhile art gallery is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to St. Catherine's Church. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Philips Lightbulb Factory, a beloved museum.

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

Get ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy a lively evening in Eindhoven. 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 reserve a table at Pizzeria La Vita è Bella, an iconic dining spot in Eindhoven. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Luzt Gastrobar, a popular restaurant in Eindhoven. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of De Vooruitgang, a hidden gem nestled in Eindhoven. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Little One Speakeasy Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bobby's Bar Kleine Berg is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Altstadt Eindhoven also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate day 10 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Belgium. Today's main destinations are Giethoorn 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Giethoorn. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Giethoorn Netherlands, an increasingly popular point of interest that draws visitors from near and far.

Set your GPS to Zuideinde and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zuideinde beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Museumboerderij 't Olde Maat Uus, a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Zuideinde should see. Next, head to Giethoorn Center.

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 Amsterdam boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Loetje, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Amsterdam at Restaurant Moon, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated d'Vijff Vlieghen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Bitterbal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Twenty Third Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Louis Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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!