Benelux

The Benelux countries consist of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg. They offer travellers diversity in their cultures, with different architectural styles and distinct flavours.

Belgium is generally a low-lying country, with a broad coastal plain extending in a south-easterly direction from the North Sea and the Netherlands, while rising gradually into the Ardennes hills and forests of the southeast. The country will provide you with some of the nicest medieval architecture, including the beautiful Brugge (Bruges), the dynamic cities of Brussels and Antwerp, and Ghent, one of the hippest places to visit.

Brussels, Belgium’s vibrant capital, combines grand historic architecture with a cosmopolitan atmosphere, highlighted by the magnificent Grand Place and elegant guildhalls. Renowned for its world-class museums, Belgian chocolates, waffles, fashionable boutiques and lively cafés, Brussels offers a wonderful blend of European heritage and contemporary culture. Brugge (Bruges) is a fairytale medieval city celebrated for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, historic market squares and beautifully preserved architecture. Visitors can admire the iconic Belfry, enjoy scenic canal cruises and discover charming chocolate shops and the city’s rich artistic heritage. Antwerp is a stylish Belgian city renowned for its artistic heritage, fashionable boutiques, historic architecture and international diamond trade. Highlights include the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady, the ornate Grote Markt and a vibrant dining and cultural scene. Ghent is a charming Belgian city renowned for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals and vibrant cultural atmosphere, with highlights including the impressive Gravensteen Castle and the historic Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.

There are not too many places that can rival the Netherlands, with its abundance of fauna and flora, canal boats, bicycles, cafés, bridges and, let’s not forget, those fantastic windmills! This small nation is rich in great food and is also the most densely populated country in the whole of Europe. It has a strong connection with the water, as it has over 450 kilometres of coastline bordering the North Sea. A quarter of the country lies below sea level, with the Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt rivers crossing the country.

Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, elegant gabled houses, historic bridges and relaxed café culture. Visitors can explore world-class museums, enjoy scenic canal cruises and discover charming neighbourhoods filled with boutiques, markets and restaurants. Den Haag (The Hague) combines royal heritage, elegant architecture and international significance as the seat of the Dutch government. Visitors can explore the historic Binnenhof, admire masterpieces at the Mauritshuis and enjoy the nearby seaside resort of Scheveningen, with its sandy beaches and lively promenade. Rotterdam is a dynamic modern city celebrated for its innovative architecture, creative atmosphere and major maritime port. Highlights include the striking Cube Houses, the impressive Erasmus Bridge and the vibrant Markthal, alongside contemporary museums and an exciting dining scene. Utrecht charms visitors with its medieval city centre, picturesque canals and distinctive waterside cafés set within historic cellar warehouses. The iconic Dom Tower dominates the skyline, while cobblestone streets, boutique shops and lively squares create a welcoming atmosphere. Delft is a picturesque historic city renowned for its traditional blue-and-white pottery, charming canals and beautifully preserved architecture. Visitors can explore the historic Market Square, admire the Nieuwe Kerk and discover the artistic legacy of painter Johannes Vermeer. Maastricht offers cobblestone streets, historic churches, elegant squares and riverside scenery, complemented by excellent restaurants, boutique shopping and a relaxed European atmosphere. Groningen is a lively university city featuring historic architecture, vibrant cafés and a thriving cultural scene, with highlights including the Grote Markt, Martinitoren Tower and Groninger Museum.

Let’s not forget the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a fairytale landlocked country bordered by Belgium to the west and north, Germany to the east and France to the south. This country is wonderfully diverse with lush highlands and valleys, mythical castles, ancient forests and vibrant towns. There is nowhere else in Europe where you will find such an outstanding mixture of historic sites and contemporary architecture.

Luxembourg City is a captivating capital where medieval fortifications and winding cobblestone streets meet elegant squares and contemporary European institutions. Visitors can explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, scenic viewpoints over the Alzette Valley, historic bridges and a welcoming mix of French, German and Luxembourgish influences.