Brussels makes an excellent base for exploring nearby cities and regions. Its strategic location in the heart of Europe means you can easily hop over to iconic Dutch, French, and even German sights. The city itself is charming, with vibrant markets, historic squares, and a lively café culture. But what truly sets Brussels apart is the variety of tours available that cater to different interests—whether you want a quick jaunt to Amsterdam, a floral explosion in Holland, or a decadent day in Champagne. Personally, I love how the day trip to Amsterdam with a canal boat cruise combines the Dutch capital’s famed waterways with the convenience of a guided experience starting right from Brussels. It’s a practical way to see a world-class city in one day, with just enough free time to explore.
If you’re seeking a more tailored, in-depth adventure, the private tour of Keukenhof, tulips, and Delft offers a peaceful escape into the Dutch countryside, especially during spring. And for those who want a luxurious experience, the Champagne region private chauffeur-driven tour from Paris makes for an indulgent day filled with tastings and charming villages. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each of these options, highlighting what makes them special so you can pick the perfect experience for your trip.
1. From Brussels: Day Trip to Amsterdam with Canal Boat Cruise
At number one, this full-day guided tour offers a well-rounded taste of Amsterdam, starting with pickup from Brussels. The tour includes a three-hour bus ride through North Holland, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery. Upon arrival, a guided walking tour introduces you to the city’s famous merchant houses along the Canal Belt, an area renowned for its historic architecture. The highlight is a bilungual canal boat cruise—a delightful way to see the city from the water, with commentary available in both Spanish and English.
This tour balances structured sightseeing with free time, giving you about 3.5 hours to explore on your own. You might wander through the Jordaan district, visit the Anne Frank House, or simply enjoy some Dutch treats from local cafés. The coach ride back provides a chance for a nap or to review photos. Travelers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and the seamless organization, with many noting the boat cruise as a memorable highlight.
Bottom line: For around $74, this tour packs in the essential sights of Amsterdam while allowing personal exploration. It’s ideal for those who want a convenient, insightful day trip with a touch of local flavor.
2. Brussels: Keukenhof, Tulips, and Delft Day Trip
Number two on our list is a private day trip that takes you into the Dutch countryside to see millions of tulips at Keukenhof and explore the historic town of Delft. The tour lasts around 10 hours, providing a relaxed yet comprehensive experience. You’ll first visit Keukenhof, the world’s largest flower garden, with over 7 million tulips blooming in spring. The vibrant displays are a sight to behold, and plenty of time is allocated to wander and take photos.
Next, you’ll head to Delft, famous for its blue pottery and quaint architecture. The town offers a peaceful stroll through cobblestone streets, with opportunities to visit workshops or buy souvenirs. The scenic drive between sites passes through scenic farmland dotted with colorful fields and iconic windmills—perfect for photo stops or just soaking in the Dutch landscape.
While the tour includes private transportation, some reviewers wish there’d been more time at Keukenhof to explore. Still, the personalized attention makes this ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience. The exclusivity and flexibility are reflected in the higher price, but many see it as a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to see Holland’s famous tulips and enjoy a leisurely visit to Delft without the crowds, this private tour offers a tailored experience with stunning scenery.
3. Paris VIP: Champagne Region Private Chauffeur Driven 12hrs
At number three, this luxurious day trip transports you from Paris into the Champagne region, renowned for its sparkling wines. The private chauffeur service means you can customize your day, choosing visits to prestigious houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Taittinger. The trip includes a guided tour of cellars, where you learn about Champagne production and enjoy tastings.
The itinerary also features charming villages like Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and a stroll along the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. The experience combines scenic drives through rolling vineyards with visits to historic sites—and the chance to buy bottles directly from the wineries. The tour lasts around 8 hours, allowing plenty of time for impressions and indulgence.
Reviewers love the flexibility of this option, with many mentioning how they appreciated the guided tastings and the chance to explore at their own pace. It’s best suited for wine enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic escape, or anyone looking to indulge in French luxury. The price reflects the exclusivity, but the personalized service and high-quality visits make it a memorable splurge.
Bottom line: Perfect for lovers of bubbly and scenic drives, this private Champagne tour offers a taste of France’s finest with the comfort of a chauffeur and flexible itinerary.
$586 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a tour from Brussels, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. The day trip to Amsterdam is great if you want a quick, active exploration of a vibrant city. If you prefer a peaceful, scenic experience with fewer crowds, the Keukenhof and Delft private tour is perfect. For those longing for a luxurious, wine-focused day, the Champagne private tour combines indulgence with sightseeing.
Think about your physical activity level—some tours involve walking, while others are more relaxed with scenic drives and tastings. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tulip season or holiday periods, to secure your preferred dates.
Brussels offers a variety of day trips that cater to all tastes. Whether you want a culture in Amsterdam, a floral spectacle in Holland, or a taste of Champagne’s finest, these tours are your ticket to memorable experiences just outside the Belgian capital. For a well-rounded adventure, consider combining a city tour with some countryside exploration—either way, start planning early to secure the best options for your trip.