Your 7-Day Netherlands & Belgium Itinerary

Immerse yourself in the captivating works of Vincent van Gogh, experiencing his masterpieces and learning about his life and influences. It's recommended to book tickets in advance online.

"This is without a doubt one of the best museum experiences I've ever had in all my years of travel. It's expensive, around €50 for 2 tickets, but I really felt that it was totally worth it. It took us about 90 minutes to make our way through the museum and it was such a wonderful use of time. I've always been really intrigued by Van Gogh but to see his work up close, it was overwhelming. My advice is to pay the extra €3.75 for the audio tour. It's so completely worth the money. Amazingly well done and immersive and just ties everything you're seeing together with interesting information. Lockers are provided free of charge which is a nice touch. It had been raining the morning we went and it was nice to be able to leave our coats and bags in a locker and be comfortable walking around. There are bathrooms in two locations that I seen and they were clean. The gift shop was also really reasonably priced, which was a surprise because they can be quite expensive!"— Chyrelle McAlister

Enjoy a relaxing stroll or unwind amidst the greenery of Vondelpark, Amsterdam's most famous park. Opened in 1865, it's a perfect spot for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere.

"We stumbled upon this park during an early morning walk and it was the highlight of our visit. We grabbed a coffee and stepped inside to find an incredibly calm and peaceful atmosphere. We ended up staying for two hours just soaking in the quiet. It’s a beautiful spot to relax, listen to the birds, and watch the ducks. If you need a break from the noise, this is the place to be."— Ziad Lel

Discover the serene and historic Begijnhof, a hidden courtyard of almshouses offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Amsterdam's past. This medieval inner court housed a community of religious women.

"Really interesting place with free entry. It is an historical place of the town. People still live in this place and there is a church with really interesting paintings. It is a sacred place and silence is mandatory. Inside there church musical events take place."— emanuele boscari

Embark on a leisurely canal cruise, gliding past historic canal houses, charming bridges, and iconic landmarks. It's a fantastic way to see the city from a unique water-level perspective.

"What a lovely canal boat ride. Captain-Tallon and Hostess Raffaella were amazing. A gorgeous day for a ride. Trip was just the right length. Very informative and educational. Would highly recommend this trip. Convenient location and good value for the money."— Doug Dolsen

Discover the city's rich history and hidden gems with a knowledgeable local guide, exploring the historic center and learning about Amsterdam's past.

"Great tour with Yasmien. Very knowledgeable and friendly. Good level of information and interaction. Great tips for food and coffee. Lovely introduction to Amsterdam for our family weekend. Thanks, David"— David Dunlop

Delve into the Netherlands' proud seafaring heritage, explore impressive ship models, and learn about the Dutch Golden Age of exploration and trade.

"Very entertaining museum. We arrived a little bit too late, since we didn't expect so much content inside the museum. You can see a replica of XVIII century ship "amsterdam". Plenty of interactive elements inside and a lot of interesting information on board. The museum itself (building) is also very interesting and you can see a lot of paintings, sea equipment, and get a lot of information about Dutch maritime history. Please remember to arrive at least 2 hours before closing!"— Jakub Reszke

Wander through one of the world's oldest botanical gardens, home to a stunning collection of plants from diverse climates, including a historic palm house and a butterfly garden.

"I visited here on a Saturday afternoon. Student price was 7€. The lady at the gate was friendly, and I had most of the garden to myself. The herb garden, and the greenhouses were great. I especially appreciated the building with the palm trees. I later went to the orangerie and got a very nice coffee for a reasonable price. Closing was a bit early, it seemed. A very nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city of Amsterdam."— Garret Girmus

Indulge in a diverse culinary experience at this indoor food market, offering various international and local street food options, perfect for an early evening snack or light bite.

"Foodhallen is the perfect place to go if you want to have great vibes, great food and a lot of choices. We had the Bitterballen first, then burgers and a hotdog with corn. Every item was super delicious and reasonably priced. There’s a lot of space but if you come after 7pm it can be quite full and you might need to hover for a while. 10/10 experience though and I’d definitely go back!"— Sabrina Scherer

Experience Amsterdam's vibrant live music scene at Paradiso, a former church transformed into an iconic concert venue, known for its excellent acoustics and diverse lineup of artists.

"Paradiso is dangerously efficient. Watched Durand Jones & The Indications here and the acoustics were honestly insane. Everything sounded rich, clean, alive. No notes. Ticketing was seamless. Queue moved fast. Entry was smooth. No unnecessary stress before soul music. Merch booth on the left (conveniently placed to test your self-control). Lockers on the right (practical decisions were made). Beer available inside (priorities aligned). Three levels. I went third floor for the aerial view. Missed the chance to grab the setlist downstairs. Character-building moment. Great sound, great flow, zero chaos. Would absolutely risk my wallet here again."— Brizki Pamuji

Explore one of the oldest zoos in Europe, combining historical 19th-century architecture with diverse animal exhibits, an aquarium, and a planetarium. This historic institution offers a unique blend of nature and cultural heritage.

"The zoo is very beautiful. It was incredible to walk through the zoo while canals surrounded it everywhere; it felt like being on an island. The surroundings with all the plants are very well designed. The animal enclosures are also very species-appropriate. The hall with the butterflies and the sea lions was my highlight. The aquarium building was still under construction, but that will probably be worth visiting as well. We were very surprised by how many animals there were. The only thing is that the restaurant, which only serves vegetarian food, should be labeled more clearly. We didn’t realize it was vegetarian until we tried the food, although that wasn’t a problem at all. There are playgrounds, children’s paths, seating areas, plenty of toilets, etc. There really is something for everyone, from students to families or couples. We could walk there directly from the city center. The prices were also affordable."— Thomas

Immerse yourself in the world of cinema at this iconic architectural marvel. The museum features a permanent exhibition on Dutch and international film history, along with various temporary showcases and screenings.

"EYE Filmmuseum in Amsterdam feels designed to be a landmark rather than just a museum. The building itself stands out with its sharp angles, fractured rooflines, and dynamic geometry. The white cladding and sculptural form give it a futuristic presence along the waterfront. From certain angles it almost feels like a ship or a frozen wave, and visually it works very well as an urban icon. My visit was brief and more exploratory. I stopped for coffee and enjoyed the view across the water, which is honestly one of the strongest aspects of the experience. The setting is beautiful and the architecture definitely achieves its goal as a visual statement. However, when it comes to the café and bar, there is room for improvement. The coffee could be better in quality, and the food selection feels like it deserves more attention. With such a strong architectural presence, the hospitality experience should rise to the same level. The building is iconic. The café just needs to catch up."— Ibrahim N

Ascend to the A'DAM Lookout observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Amsterdam's historic city center, port, and canals. Thrill-seekers can also opt for 'Over The Edge,' Europe's highest swing (additional cost).

"We had a fantastic day at Adams Lookout and Swing! From the top, the views are just wow—big green hills, blue sky, and far-away places. It's perfect for taking lots of photos to share with friends.The swing is the best part. You sit in it, they push you out over the edge, and whoosh—you fly! It feels scary but exciting, like a big adventure. Don't worry, it's very safe with strong ropes and harnesses.Good things about it: stunning scenery that makes you happy, a quick but thrilling ride that lasts about a minute, and prices that are fair—not too expensive. You get great value for the fun.The staff were super friendly. They smiled, joked a bit to make us relax, and explained everything clearly. One guy even took our photos for free!Best time to visit is early morning when it's quiet and cool, or sunset. Sunset is awesome—the sky turns pink, orange, and purple. The whole place looks magical, and the swing at that time is extra special. Just go early or late to skip big crowds.We went with friends and can't wait to go back. Totally recommend for anyone who likes adventure and pretty views!"— YOUSUF ALI

Explore masterpieces of Dutch Golden Age art, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and delve into over 800 years of Dutch history within this iconic national museum.

"The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is an outstanding museum and an absolute must-visit. The collection is beautifully curated and takes you on a fascinating journey through Dutch art and history. Seeing masterpieces like Rembrandt’s The Night Watch in person is truly unforgettable. The building itself is stunning, spacious, and well organized, making the visit enjoyable even when it’s busy. The staff is professional and helpful, and all facilities are well managed. I highly recommend booking the museum’s guided tour (costing €7.50). It lasts about one hour and offers an excellent overview of the main masterpieces, providing deeper insight and context that truly enhances the experience. It’s definitely worth the small additional fee. Plan to spend at least a few hours here to fully appreciate everything. A highlight of any trip to Amsterdam!"— Vania Venuti

Short transfer from your morning activity area to Amsterdam Centraal Station for your onward journey.

"Amsterdam Centraal Station is a stunning building which is an iconic symbol of the city. It’s the second busiest railway station and the most-visited Rijksmonument in the Netherlands. The history dates back to its opening in 1889. The station building is stunning, and there are many places to shop and grab food and coffee inside the station, including Albert Heijn, Brewdog, Dunkin, Lush, Starbucks, Wagamama, and many others — there’s even a barber shop. This can be a place to visit just to explore and spend some time, even if you’re not catching a service. My most recent visit was in the run-up to Christmas, and the decorations and lighting were certainly pretty and memorable. There are even public benches at the front of the station which can be useful if you just want to sit down for a couple of minutes without going inside a hospitality venue. There are a wide number of services from this station for travel within the Netherlands and international services to London, Paris, Germany, Belgium and more. The boat terminal at the back of the station is also pretty handy for getting across the IJ River to the northern part of the city. At the front of the station, you can get tram and metro services, with bus services above the station - it’s pretty well connected regardless of how you’re travelling. Despite being a large station, it’s mostly easy to find everything. I did struggle reaching Platform 14, though, as it appeared to involve going up to go back down again, and I feel this could be signposted better. The station also has shops past the ticket gates, while I would prefer the whole station to be accessible (other than platforms), this is very common in the Netherlands, and it is possible to pass through with an OV-chipkaart if you just wish to visit certain shops without travel. This is one of my favourite railway stations I’ve come across on my travels; it’s stunning and offers a wide array of public transportation services."— Aaron

Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Grand Place, Brussels' central square, surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the magnificent Town Hall. Take your time to admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere.

"The main attractions of Brussels is the Grand Place, the most beautiful plaza in the city. Grand Place square it's stunning and beautiful, with incredible old buildings and amazing architecture. It can be very crowded, but the atmosphere is lively and pleasant. If you come in the morning you will not find it so crowded. Also, in the night the square lights up making here more beautiful. There are couple of museum that you can visit and learn about the culture and history of Brussels and Belgium. It's the perfect place to relax, enjoying the surroundings, taking photos, and spending time at the nearby cafés or restaurants. The square has a great vibe and it's definitely worth visiting in my opinion."— Alexandru Stefan (Crazy Travel Story)

A quick visit to Brussels' most famous (and often humorous) landmark, the small bronze statue of a peeing boy, a symbol of the city's rebellious spirit.

"Manneken Pis is one of the most famous symbols of Brussels. The statue it's all around the city. You will see it in chocolate stores, beer pubs and on every magnet or souvenir, way before you go to the actual monument. This fun little landmark you will find it near Grand Place Square. In my opinion it's definitely smaller than i though. But maybe... that’s the charm and beauty of the little guy. The area around it's full of cafés and pubs. Definitely need to see it. Just stop by, take a photo, and continue walking around the beautiful streets of Brussels or sit on chair at a pub and have a local Belgium beer."— Alexandru Stefan (Crazy Travel Story)

Stroll through the elegant 19th-century Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert, one of Europe's first shopping arcades, featuring charming boutiques, chocolate shops, and cafes under a grand glass roof.

"I visited the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert at the end of December and was completely enchanted by the experience. The grand glass-roofed arcade, with its stunning architecture and festive atmosphere, felt like stepping into a timeless piece of history. Every corner exuded charm, from the elegant shopfronts to the beautifully lit decorations that made the whole gallery glow. Walking through the arcade was a delight, especially during the holiday season, as the mix of luxury boutiques, chocolatiers, and cosy cafés created a warm and inviting ambiance. It’s the perfect place to wander, admire the intricate details, and indulge in some Belgian treats. I highly recommend visiting, especially if you want to experience the cultural and architectural beauty of Brussels in one spot. Absolutely deserving of 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"— Odi Assli

Marvel at the Gothic architecture and stained glass windows of Brussels' national cathedral, a masterpiece dating back to the 13th century.

"A Gothic Masterpiece in the Heart of Brussels ​Walking into this cathedral feels like stepping back into the 13th century, but with a lightness that many older churches lack. Unlike the darker, more "heavy" Gothic styles, the white stone interior here makes the whole space feel airy and serene. ​The 16th-century Renaissance windows are breathtaking. When the sun hits them just right, the floor transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. ​Even if you aren't religious, the 1699 wooden pulpit is an incredible piece of craftsmanship—it depicts the fall of Adam and Eve with staggering detail. ​For a few extra Euro, you can head downstairs to see the Romanesque remains of the original 11th-century church. It’s a literal "foundation" of history. ​​Try to visit during the week in the morning. The crowds are thinner, and the atmosphere is much more contemplative. If you're lucky, you might catch a rehearsal on the massive pipe organ—the acoustics are phenomenal. ​It is less flashy than the Grand Place but twice as atmospheric. It’s a perfect blend of Brabantine Gothic architecture and Belgian history."— Francesco Mascellaro

Dive into the world of Belgian comics, from Tintin to The Smurfs, housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building designed by Victor Horta.

"I came here on a whim to kill some time on a cold December day. It was a lovely way to spend a couple of hours. This comprehensive museum of the Belgium comic book scene was both informative and entertaining. The artwork was just as impressive with the dedicated displays to varying contributors to the Belgium/French comic world. With multiple floors and interactive displays this is a must do if in the area."— Joanna Vasquez

Admire the impressive facade of the official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians, open to the public during certain periods to showcase its grand halls and art collections.

"We only saw the Royal Palace from the outside, but it's impressive. The architecture is grand and elegant, and the surrounding area adds to its majestic appearance. Even from the outside, it’s definitely worth stopping by to admire."— nino chitashvili

Explore the fascinating collection of musical instruments housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building, offering a unique journey through musical history and culture.

"Walking on the streets of Brussels i saw this beautiful building that catches your eyes. When i approach it i found out that it's a museum. The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Brussels. The building itself is a remarkable. A beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture, with amazing details and strong character. In my opinion, it is one of the Art Nouveau buildings in Brussels with very high architectural quality. Inside... You will find a collection of more then 200 instruments. I highly recommend it to visit this interesting museum."— Alexandru Stefan (Crazy Travel Story)

Wander through the Mont des Arts complex, enjoying the panoramic views of Brussels, the beautiful gardens, and the architectural ensemble of cultural institutions.

"Mont des Arts is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in Brussels, Belgium. From here youbwill find a panoramic view over the city. The park and is very beautiful and relaxing. Looking for a nice place to chill and have a coffee then head to this spot and just sit on the steps and enjoying the moment. In my opinion, this park its a must-visit viewpoint that truly captures the charm of Brussels. So... Don't skip it! Also a perfect plaxe for photographs."— Alexandru Stefan (Crazy Travel Story)