Need to decide whether to stay in Brussels or Amsterdam? You could decide to plan a break that covers both cities, of course. They’re under three hours away from one another by road, after all. That said, splitting your break will mean you won’t get the best out of each city visit, so making your mind up will be a good idea in most cases. Read on to find out which city is for you.
Things to Do in Brussels and Amsterdam
Brussels has many one-of-a-kind attractions that you won’t find in Amsterdam – or any other city for that matter. The Grand Place is a must-see place and its market is fabulous. Its impressive square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and affords easy access to the dramatic architecture of the Town Hall and the neo-Gothic King’s House.
Amsterdam, on the other hand, has a more distinct layout thanks to its concentric network of canals. It is certainly worth booking a waterborne tour to see the city from its most enlightening angle. Make sure you visit Bloemenmarkt, the city’s famous flower market, which we mentioned when we gave some tips on what to do in Amsterdam in 3 days. Do not miss the best places to visit in Amsterdam to get a deep insight into the city.
Food and Drink
As international cities, you can obtain many different cuisines during your stay. Indian, Chinese and Mediterranean tastes will all be catered for.
That said, you can also find restaurants serving more traditional dishes from either city. Waffles are a feature of daily life in both Amsterdam and Brussels. Whichever city you choose, try one from a street seller for an authentic experience.
To deepen this aspect, have a look at where to eat in Brussels.
Museums
Both cities boast impressive institutions. In Amsterdam, the Van Gogh collection at a gallery dedicated to the great man is world-class. A visit to Anne Frank Huis is also well worth it, not least for the exhibition space next door to the property she hid in during World War II. In Brussels, the entertaining Belgian Centre for Comic Strips offers a great deal of fun. Many visitors will also enjoy a visit to the Muses Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique which houses an impressive collection of art.
Transport
Both cities have good public transportation networks although, in Amsterdam, this really means getting around by tram or bus since the narrow streets and canals don’t accommodate light railways. In Brussels, nearly all public transportation links run through the city center so you can’t get lost.
Weather
In winter, wrap up warm. Summer is the best time for either city but expect greater visitor numbers at this time of year. In terms of average daily temperatures and rainfall, there’s not much to separate them, so choose either Brussels or Amsterdam.
Where to Stay in Brussels
Hotels in Brussels tend to be welcoming and of a high quality. A good example is the renowned Catalonia Brussels which is located in the delightful Saint Gilles district of the city, situated a few minutes walk from the Porte de Hal, a 14th-century attraction that offers impressive views.
This particular four-star hotel is often chosen because of its close proximity to the Bois de la Cambre to its east, a popular public park with a wonderful lake. The hotel’s gastrobar is another reason to book rooms here because it offers a relaxed atmosphere for evening dining after a day that’s been spent exploring the city. There’s a gym and breakfast buffet, too.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam
There are plenty of hotels in Amsterdam that cater to international visitors, such as the impressive Catalonia Vondel Amsterdam which also benefits from a four-star rating. Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, a couple of minutes’ stroll from Vondelpark, the city’s main green open space, this hotel boasts an à la carte for a fine dining experience in the evenings as well as at lunchtime.
The Joost restaurant offers diners the chance to enjoy true Dutch cuisine but there’s also a gastrobar and room service if you want something less formal. There are plenty of different rooms to choose from including an impressive two-bedroom loft apartment.
When deciding whether to stay in Brussels or Amsterdam, you should figure out what is most important to you. For some, this will be a cultural experience while, for others, the food will be more important. Either way, you’re bound to enjoy an enriching experience.
