8-Day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) Itinerary

An 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary offers an exciting mix of history, culture, art, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re traveling for the first time or returning to explore more, this journey will introduce you to the charm of Amsterdam, the medieval beauty of Bruges, and the vibrant energy of Ghent. Each of these cities offers something unique, making this trip a must for travelers seeking a diverse and memorable European experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Start your 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary in Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands. Known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam is a city that blends the old and new effortlessly. Once you arrive, check into your accommodation and take some time to explore the city.

You can begin by wandering through the Jordaan District, a charming area filled with narrow streets, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. Don’t miss the Anne Frank House, a must-see historical site. For a relaxed afternoon, take a canal cruise to get a view of the city from the water, allowing you to admire its beautiful bridges, canal houses, and bustling streets.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of Amsterdam’s many excellent restaurants. Try Dutch specialties like stroopwafels (a sweet treat) or haring (raw herring).

Day 2: Explore Amsterdam's Museums
On the second day of your 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary, dedicate your time to visiting some of the world-famous museums in the city. Head to the Rijksmuseum, where you can explore Dutch masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. Afterward, take a short walk to the Van Gogh Museum to admire the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s art.

Don’t forget to visit the Stedelijk Museum if you are interested in modern and contemporary art. In the afternoon, stroll through Vondelpark, a green space perfect for relaxation.

In the evening, consider exploring Leidseplein Square for a lively night out, with plenty of bars, theaters, and restaurants to choose from.

Day 3: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans and Volendam
For a day trip outside the city, take a short ride to Zaanse Schans, a traditional Dutch village known for its windmills, wooden houses, and artisan workshops. Here, you can learn about traditional Dutch crafts such as cheese-making and wooden clog carving.

Afterward, head to Volendam, a picturesque fishing village on the IJsselmeer Lake. Wander through the narrow streets, enjoy the harbor views, and sample local seafood.

Return to Amsterdam in the evening to relax after a day of exploration.

Day 4: Amsterdam to Bruges
On the fourth day of your 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary, travel from Amsterdam to Bruges, one of Belgium’s most charming cities. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is famous for its medieval architecture, canals, and cobblestone streets.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day getting acquainted with the city. Start with a visit to Market Square, home to the Belfry of Bruges, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, take a relaxing boat ride along Bruges' canals for a unique perspective of the city.

In the evening, explore the medieval streets and enjoy a dinner of Belgian specialties, such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) and Belgian waffles.

Day 5: Explore Bruges
Your second day in Bruges will allow you to dive deeper into the city’s history and charm. Visit Basilica of the Holy Blood, a beautiful church that houses a relic believed to contain drops of Christ’s blood. Afterward, head to the Gruuthuse Museum, which offers insights into the city’s medieval past.

Take some time to wander around the quaint streets and visit Begijnhof, a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and white houses. Another highlight is the Memling Museum, which houses works by the Flemish Primitives, a group of early Netherlandish painters.

Finish the day with a leisurely stroll through the city’s parks or perhaps visit a local brewery to sample some Belgian beer.

Day 6: Bruges to Ghent
On day six, leave Bruges behind and travel to Ghent, another gem of Belgian history. Ghent offers a perfect mix of medieval architecture and vibrant city life. After checking into your hotel, begin exploring the city by visiting Gravensteen Castle, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of the city. From here, walk down to Korenmarkt, a lively square surrounded by historic buildings and cafes.

Be sure to visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece by Jan van Eyck. If you have time, explore Patershol, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets and cozy restaurants.

Day 7: Explore Ghent
Your final full day of the 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary is dedicated to exploring more of Ghent. Start your day by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an extensive collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to modern times. Afterward, stroll through Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque canalside streets lined with medieval buildings.

Visit the Ghent Belfry, another impressive tower offering stunning views of the city, before heading to STAM, the city museum, to learn more about Ghent’s history and development.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of Ghent’s many top-notch restaurants. Be sure to try waterzooi, a creamy Belgian stew, or gentse neuzen, a traditional Ghentian candy.

Day 8: Return to Amsterdam or Continue Your Journey
On the final day of your 8-day Amsterdam & Belgium (Bruges & Ghent) itinerary, you can either return to Amsterdam for your departure or continue your journey elsewhere. If you’re heading back to Amsterdam, take the time to enjoy the scenic drive or train ride back. Once in Amsterdam, you can spend the remaining hours visiting any attractions you may have missed or simply relaxing in one of the city’s many cafés.