Amsterdam Day Trips from Brussels
Close enough to reach by road from Brussels in fewer than three hours and small enough to explore on foot, by bike, or by canal boat, Amsterdam makes a perfect day trip from Belgium. Here’s how to best enjoy Amsterdam on a day away from the Belgian capital.
Highlights
Take a walking tour along the tree-lined canals to top sights such as Dam Square and the 17th-century Royal Palace of Amsterdam, and gain insight into centuries of European history.
Indulge in a little retail therapy among the high-end stores along the Nine Streets, experience the downtown vibes of the Red Light District, and stop for beer and a snack of bitterballen (fried meatballs) at a traditional Dutch café.
Cruise along the Canal Ring on a sightseeing boat tour and admire the grand canal-side mansions along the way.
Visit top Amsterdam cultural attractions such as the Hermitage Amsterdam, the Stedelijk Museum, or the Van Gogh Museum.
Hop on a bike and spin over the cobbled streets to farther-flung spots like the vibrant Jordaan district, the National Maritime Museum, or the pretty 19th-century Vondelpark.
Delve into a world of floral scents and colors on a visit to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens.
Things to Know
Amsterdam lies 129 miles (208 kilometers) north of Brussels, a 2.5- to 3-hour drive.
Day tours to Amsterdam from Brussels typically include a guide, pickup and drop-off at your Amsterdam accommodation, and transportation.
Amsterdam is a very walking- and cycling-friendly city, with plenty to see and do on foot and by bike. As such, comfortable shoes are recommended.