About this activity
Editor's Note
I’ve seen dozens of these cross-border day trips come across my desk, and honestly, the industry usually prices them like they're selling you a seat on a private jet rather than a standard coach. Most operators focus so much on hitting their occupancy targets that they forget travelers actually want to breathe, not just stare at a bus window. This Brussels-to-Amsterdam run is a bit of a rare find because it manages to dodge the usual "tourist trap" feel by getting you off the asphalt and onto the water almost immediately. It's a solid pivot from the corporate obsession with RevPAR and margins, focusing instead on actually seeing the Dutch Baroque architecture without a 50-person group blocking your view. If you’re tired of the same old "if it's Tuesday, it must be Belgium" grind, this itinerary might actually be worth the lead time.
About the Tour
Leaving the Belgian capital behind for a day doesn't have to be a logistical nightmare. This full-day excursion streamlines the transition from the cobblestones of Brussels to the iconic waterways of Amsterdam, making it one of the most efficient ways to tick two European capitals off your list in a single go.
What to Expect
Your journey begins at a centrally-located meeting point in Brussels, where you'll board a comfortable, climate-controlled bus. The drive through the Low Countries is a smooth transition, allowing you to relax before hitting the bustling streets of Amsterdam.
Once you arrive, the experience shifts from the road to the water. The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly the canal boat cruise. As you navigate the UNESCO-listed canal belt, a professional guide will break down the city's evolution—from its humble 13th-century beginnings at Dam Square to its Golden Age height. It’s the best way to admire the lean, Gothic facades and the ornate Dutch Baroque architecture that defines the city's skyline.
Freedom to Explore
After the guided portion of the day concludes, the city is yours. Unlike more rigid tours that keep you on a leash, this itinerary provides ample free time. Whether you want to:
- Grab a cone of Vlaamse friet (ironically, back in Dutch territory).
- Wander through the "9 Streets" for some boutique shopping.
- Visit the oldest parts of the city to see how history has been preserved.
As the day winds down, you'll reconnect with the group for a stress-free bus ride back to Brussels, arriving just in time to reflect on a day well-spent. This is a high-demand route, so booking with decent lead time is usually recommended to secure a spot.
Highlights
- Experience the charms of Amsterdam in a day
- Learn the history of the city from a knowledgable guide
- Enjoy a canal boat cruise with a bilingüal tour guide (Spanish and English)
Know before you go
- Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance (local time in Belgium) without penalty. Cancellations of less than 24 hours advance notice and no shows will be charged in full.
- Children under 3 years old must travel in a car seat on the bus. Please make sure to bring their appropriate seat.
What to bring
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
2 starting location options:
Carr de l'Europe 3, Carrefour de l'Europe
Bus/coach
(3 hours)
Amsterdam
Guided tour, Boat cruise (1 hour)
Amsterdam
Free time (3.5 hours)
Bus/coach
(3 hours)
2 drop-off locations:
Carr de l'Europe 3, Carrefour de l'Europe