Benelux in 7 Days
Netherlands · Belgium · Luxembourg
Overview
The Benelux countries are small enough that this entire route runs on fast, frequent trains with no leg over three hours: Amsterdam's canals, Bruges's fairy-tale old town, Brussels's Grand Place and EU quarter, and Luxembourg City's dramatic gorge-top old town.
- Duration
- 7 days
- Pace
- Balanced
- Transport
- Public transport
- Estimated budget (comfortable)
- €950–€1,200
Route
1. Amsterdam2. Bruges3. Brussels4. Luxembourg City
Highlights
- Amsterdam's canal ring at golden hour
- Bruges's medieval old town and canals
- Brussels's Grand Place, floodlit at night
- Luxembourg City's old fortifications and casemates
Worth knowing
- Amsterdam's centre is very crowded, especially on weekends
- Luxembourg City is quiet at night — plan dinner reservations ahead
- Three currencies-free but three distinct rail systems to navigate
Day by day
Day 1
AmsterdamMain activities
- Arrive
- Canal ring walk
- Jordaan neighbourhood
Overnight: Amsterdam
Day 2
AmsterdamMain activities
- Rijksmuseum or Anne Frank House
- Canal boat tour
Optional additions
- Day trip to Zaanse Schans windmills
Overnight: Amsterdam
Day 3
Amsterdam → BrugesMain activities
- Train via Brussels (~3h)
- Markt square and canal walk
~3 hoursOvernight: Bruges
Day 4
Bruges → BrusselsMain activities
- Train to Brussels (~1h)
- Grand Place and Manneken Pis
Optional additions
- European Quarter
~1 hourOvernight: Brussels
Day 5
Brussels → Luxembourg CityMain activities
- Train to Luxembourg City (~3h)
- Old town and Bock Casemates
~3 hoursOvernight: Luxembourg City
Day 6
Luxembourg CityMain activities
- Chemin de la Corniche walk
- Free afternoon
Optional additions
- Vianden Castle day trip
Overnight: Luxembourg City
Day 7
Luxembourg CityMain activities
- Final sightseeing
- Departure
Overnight: Luxembourg City
Alternatives
Shorter version · 5 days
Drop Luxembourg City and spend the extra day in Brussels or Ghent.
Longer extension · 10 days
Add Ghent and Antwerp as a 3-day extension between Bruges and Brussels.