Netherlands & Belgium Itinerary 14 Days: Canals, Art, and Medieval Cities
Embark on a 14-day journey through the Netherlands and Belgium, exploring vibrant cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Ghent, and Brussels. Discover iconic art, stunning architecture, and rich history, all connected by efficient train and bus travel.
- 1Amsterdam
- 2Rotterdam
- 3Ghent
- 4Brussels
Day 1: Arrive Amsterdam
Settle into Amsterdam, a city famed for its picturesque canals and historic Dam Square. Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) and transfer to Amsterdam Centraal Station to begin your exploration.
Highlights
- Wander along the elegant Grachtengordel (canal district)
- Explore the Royal Palace Amsterdam on Dam Square
- Enjoy the lively ambiance of Dam Square
Day 2: Explore Amsterdam's Art and Culture
Immerse yourself in the world of Dutch Masters and modern art with visits to two of Amsterdam's most renowned museums.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum
- Admire the extensive collection of Vincent van Gogh's works at the Van Gogh Museum
- Relax or stroll through the expansive Vondelpark
Day 3: Amsterdam's History and Charming Canals
Delve into a poignant piece of history and then explore one of Amsterdam's most charming and historic neighborhoods.
Highlights
- Visit the Anne Frank House for a powerful historical experience
- Explore the Rembrandt House Museum, the artist's former home and studio
- Wander through the picturesque streets and canals of the Jordaan district
Day 4: Day Trip to Historic Haarlem
Take a short train journey from Amsterdam Centraal to Haarlem for a day exploring its historic center, including the Grote Markt and Frans Hals Museum. Trains depart from Amsterdam Centraal as early as 00:01, and buses return from Haarlem as late as 23:56.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces by Frans Hals at the Frans Hals Museum
- Visit the grand Grote of St.-Bavokerk on the main square
- Explore the bustling Grote Markt, the heart of Haarlem's old city
Day 5: Travel to Rotterdam and Modern Architecture
Journey by train from Amsterdam Centraal to Rotterdam Centraal, then spend the afternoon discovering Rotterdam's innovative modern architecture and iconic Cube Houses.
Highlights
- Marvel at the unique design of the Cube Houses
- Walk across the striking Erasmus Bridge, a symbol of the city
- Explore the lively Oude Haven (Old Harbor) district
Day 6: Rotterdam's Art and Panoramic Views
Dedicate your day to Rotterdam's impressive art scene and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Highlights
- Explore the diverse collections at Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
- Ascend the Euromast for unparalleled city views
- Visit the innovative Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, a publicly accessible art storage facility
Day 7: Travel to Ghent and Medieval Charm
Travel by bus from Rotterdam, Conradstraat (Centraal Station) to Gent, Ghent. Upon arrival, begin exploring Ghent's medieval charm, including its historic castle and picturesque quays.
Highlights
- Discover the imposing Gravensteen Castle in the city center
- Stroll along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei quays
- Admire the historic guild houses lining the canals
Day 8: Ghent's Sacred Art and City Views
Explore Ghent's rich religious art and climb its historic belfry for stunning views over the city.
Highlights
- Visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral, home to the famous 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb'
- Climb the Belfry of Ghent for panoramic city views
- Learn about the city's history at the STAM Ghent City Museum
Day 9: Ghent's Fine Arts and Local Flavors
Spend your day appreciating fine art and indulging in Ghent's unique culinary offerings.
Highlights
- Explore the extensive collection at the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent
- Discover contemporary art at S.M.A.K.
- Savor a traditional Waterzooi, a creamy Gentian stew
Day 10: Day Trip to Antwerp's Grandeur
Take a bus from Ghent to Antwerp for a day exploring its magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady and the historic Grote Markt. Return to Ghent by train. Buses depart from Ghent as early as 00:55, and trains return from Antwerp as late as 23:58.
Highlights
- Admire the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady and its Rubens masterpieces
- Explore the historic Grote Markt, surrounded by ornate guild houses
- Visit Het Steen, a medieval riverside fortress
Day 11: Travel to Brussels and Grandeur
Journey by bus from Gent, Voskenslaan / Sint-Denijslaan to Brussels. Settle in and immediately immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Grand Place and elegant shopping arcades.
Highlights
- Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Grand Place, Brussels' iconic central square
- Wander through the elegant Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
- Visit the impressive St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral
Day 12: Brussels' Royal Art and City Panoramas
Dedicate your day to Brussels' rich artistic heritage and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Highlights
- Explore the extensive collections at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
- Discover the surreal world of René Magritte at the Magritte Museum
- Enjoy panoramic city views from Mont des Arts
Day 13: Brussels' Comic Art and Culinary Delights
Dive into Belgium's unique comic art culture and indulge in its world-famous street food and sweet treats.
Highlights
- Explore the vibrant Comics Art Museum, celebrating Tintin and the Smurfs
- Relax in the expansive Parc du Cinquantenaire
- Indulge in authentic Belgian frites and a classic Brussels waffle
Day 14: Depart Brussels
Enjoy a final morning in Brussels for some last-minute shopping or a leisurely breakfast before heading to Brussels Airport (BRU) for your departure. Alternatively, depart from Brussels-Midi/Zuid, the main international train station.
Highlights
- Pick up some Belgian chocolates or souvenirs
- Savor a delicious Belgian waffle
- Depart from Brussels Airport (BRU) or Brussels-Midi/Zuid for your onward journey
