June 02, 2022
When visiting Amsterdam, a trip to Belgium may not be the first thing coming to your mind. However, the Netherlands and Belgium are right next to each other, share strong historical ties and Belgium can easily be visited through public transport and bus tours and we promise, it’s worth it!
Belgium is especially famous for its charming historic cities and beautiful landmarks as well as the scrumptious Belgian waffles, fine chocolates and beers. Our day trips from Amsterdam take you to Bruges and Brussels, two of the best places to visit in the country. The Belgium tours depart from Amsterdam by comfortable touring buses and bring you to Belgium’s best sights.
Explore Brussels, Belgium’s charming capital
Did you know that both Dutch and French are the official languages of Brussel? The Belgian capital lies in the heart of the country near the border of Flanders and Wallonia. The city is also the administrative center of the European Union and thus modern and international but also charming and historic at the same time.
The Brussels Tour brings you to the city’s best sights. Take a photo at the Atomium. The landmark that was constructed for the World’s Fair in 1958 is the most popular tourist attraction in the capital. Then you continue to explore the city’s inner quarters and their attractions, including the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the grand Royal Palace and the Congress Column.
After exploring the city by bus, the guided walking tour takes you through Brussel’s charming, historic city centre. See the iconic statue of Manneken Pis and the picturesque central square before you take part in a chocolatier’s demonstration. Here, you will learn all about chocolate confectionary making and taste some of the melt-in-your-mouth chocolates Belgium is so famous for.
In addition to the walking tour, you will have some time to explore the city at your own pace. Other great things to see Brussels include, for example, the European Quarter, the lively heart of the European Union. Here you can take a tour of the European Parliament. Or visit the 19th century greenhouse Le Botanique. The colorful gardens are the perfect picture backdrop and invite visitors to a relaxed stroll.
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Visit the enchanting city of Bruges
Other than the equally modern and historic Brussels, Bruges is a picturesque fairytale city and one of the most popular UNESCO heritage sites. Simply hop on the bus from Amsterdam to join a guided walking tour through the picturesque old town. Bruges was once the commercial capital of the world and it reflects in its breath-taking, rich medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and beautiful canals.
Some of the sights you will explore during the tour include the Basilica of the Holy Blood that is the repository of a phial with Holy Blood as well as the medieval bell tower Belfry of Bruges, one of the city’s most characteristic landmarks. Stroll across the Market Square, see the Sint-Salvator Cathedral that features a diverse mix of styles and many more.
During the full day tour you will also have time to explore Bruges on your own. Just like in Amsterdam, Bruges’ romantic canals are best explored with a boat tour. With so many intertwined waterways, you’ll get to see the city from a new perspective. For a truly Belgian snack in between, you should try fries with mayonnaise or seek out the many chocolateries for Belgian chocolates that come in many flavours and make the perfect souvenir.
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