Day trip to Amsterdam from Brussels – A Complete Guide

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and it has plenty of things to do and explore. It is also close to its Dutch neighbour Amsterdam, which can be explored in a day trip. Many tourists come to Brussels for its vibrant nightlife, cafes and cultural attractions, but due to its proximity to Amsterdam, a one-day tour is a great option for those who don’t have the time or budget for a longer stay in the city.

In this article we will cover everything you need to know about taking a day trip from Brussels to Amsterdam. We will discuss the best route for getting there, the most efficient way of travelling, what attractions are worth seeing, where to book your travel and activities, as well as some tips and advice on making the most of your time in Amsterdam.

How to get there

The best way to get to Amsterdam from Brussels is by train. Trains depart from Bruxelles-Midi/Zuid station, with the fastest option taking around 1 hour and 50 minutes and some going direct without needing to change trains. Online ticket booking is available, plus there are also last-minute tickets available at the station. Make sure to get there early as they can get sold out quite quickly.

Bus travel is another great option and there are several companies offering day and night bus services from Brussels to Amsterdam. These buses leave from Gare du Nord station and arrive at Amsterdam Centraal. Prices start from around €20 for a return ticket – it’s worth booking in advance to get the best deal and peak times can be busy.

For visitors looking for a more leisurely journey, there are also boat tours available, although these take around 3 hours due to the winding canals.

What to see in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is full of attractions, from its iconic canals, winding streets, incredible art galleries and museums, to the world-famous red light district.

The main canal in Amsterdam is the Prinsengracht which is lined with houseboats, cafes and old warehouses that have been transformed into hip neighbourhoods and entertainment venues. This is the perfect place to take in the sunset or go for a peaceful stroll.

The Anne Frank House tells the story of one of the most famous people in history and still stands today as a memorial to all those who lost their lives during World War II. Other notable attractions include the famous Rijksmuseum, which houses a world-class collection of Dutch artwork; the Jordaan district, which is popular for its shopping and nightlife; and the iconic red light district – for visitors who want to experience Amsterdam’s unique culture first-hand.

Booking tours and activities

Once you’ve arrived in Amsterdam, it’s time to make the most of your trip by booking some tours and activities.

If you’re looking for an action-packed day, then why not book a cycling tour? This is one of the best ways to see Amsterdam in a day. You will be able to explore places you would have otherwise missed, such as hidden alleyways and charming neighbourhoods. Alternatively, you could opt for a guided walking tour which will take you around some of the main attractions while providing an insight into the city’s culture and history.

A canal tour is another great way of seeing Amsterdam’s unique scenery from the comfort of your own boat. These tours often include stops at museums, cafes and other attractions along the narrow canals.

If you’re looking for a more hands-on experience, then why not take a cooking class or visit one of the many old-school coffee houses that used to be so popular in Amsterdam?

Whatever kind of experience you’re looking for, there are plenty of options available – plus you can save time by booking tickets online with GetYourGuide before heading out.

Tips for your day trip

It’s important to remember that most attractions can be crowded in the summer months – so it’s best to book tickets in advance or arrive early if you want to avoid long queues. The same applies for restaurants and bars; make sure to book reservations in advance if you want to avoid overcrowded venues.

If you plan on taking lots of photos, investing in a good pair of walking shoes is also highly recommended!

Finally, don’t forget your camera! There are some beautiful sights to take in throughout the city – so make sure you capture your memories so you can look back on them in years to come.

Conclusion

A day trip from Brussels to Amsterdam is an excellent option for those who want to experience all that this Dutch city has to offer without having to spend too much time exploring it. While there are plenty of attractions and activities to take part in during your day trip, it’s also important to make sure that you plan your route in advance and reserve tickets if possible. Thankfully, booking tickets online with GetYourGuide is quick and easy, so why not give it a try before heading out?