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Planning a European trip but unsure where to go or what to do? Check out this detailed itinerary covering France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany below!
Exploring Europe offers an irresistible allure for travel enthusiasts. A journey through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany provides not only the chance to admire breathtaking landscapes but also to delve into a rich tapestry of culture and history. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the peaceful, ancient streets of Brussels, each city is like a vivid painting blending modernity with history.
With 9 days and 8 nights, you'll have ample time to appreciate the beauty of each country, discover local cultures, savor delicious cuisines, and meet the welcoming people. Let’s dive into the details of this journey and begin planning your upcoming adventure!
9-day, 8-night Itinerary through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany
Day 1: Hanoi - Frankfurt (Germany)
The 9-day, 8-night European journey begins with a flight from Hanoi to Frankfurt, a lively and modern city in Germany. Depending on your preferences, you can choose a direct or connecting flight to reach your destination. A direct flight, lasting about 12 hours and 20 minutes, is the most time-efficient option. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Lufthansa offer direct flights for added convenience. If you prefer a connecting flight, the journey will take approximately 18 hours and 50 minutes.
Upon arrival at Frankfurt Am Main airport, you can travel into the city center by taxi or airport shuttle, with fares ranging from 80–100 Euro and a travel time of about 30 minutes. For a more budget-friendly option, you can take the train or tram, with costs ranging from 2.8–4.65 Euro and travel times of 20–40 minutes.
In the evening, Frankfurt welcomes visitors with a lively yet romantic atmosphere. A stroll around the city center offers a chance to admire the stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the local vibe. This is also the perfect time to sample local cuisine and enjoy diverse nightlife options, from bars to bustling shopping districts.
Day 2: Frankfurt (Germany) - Senckenberg Museum, Palmengarten, Alte Oper
On the second day of your journey, begin exploring Frankfurt, a city rich in history and culture. The first stop is the Senckenberg Museum, home to an impressive collection of natural history exhibits, particularly its remarkable dinosaur fossils. Afterward, a short 5-minute drive or 10-minute walk will bring you to Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden with lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
From Palmengarten, a quick 8-10 minute journey by car or tram will take you to the Alte Oper, the historic opera house. Not only is it an architectural marvel, but it also serves as a fantastic venue for enjoying spectacular musical performances.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, enjoy dinner at Lohninger, a restaurant that serves delicious traditional German dishes. If you're looking to try something more distinctive, Apfelwein Dax, offering apple wine, is a fantastic choice. If you still have time, head to The Cosy Bar to unwind and relax in a cozy atmosphere after a long day of exploration.
Day 3: Cologne (Germany) - Lindt Chocolate Museum, Rhine Garden Sculpture Park, Ludwig Museum, Cologne Cathedral
Continuing your 9-day, 8-night European tour, you'll leave Frankfurt to discover Cologne, a city known for its romantic beauty and stunning architecture along the Rhine River. The most convenient way to travel from Frankfurt to Cologne is by train. From Frankfurt Central Station or Frankfurt International Airport, you can take the high-speed Intercity Express (ICE) or the more budget-friendly Eurocity (EC) train. The journey takes just over an hour, with one-way ticket prices ranging from 25 to 88 USD, depending on the train type and departure time.
Your first stop should be the Lindt Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the chocolate-making process from raw ingredients to finished products. The museum is just a 4-minute drive from Cologne Central Station, making it an easy visit. Next, relax and admire the sculptures along the Rhine at the Rhine Garden Sculpture Park. Don’t miss the Ludwig Museum, showcasing contemporary art by international artists.
Finally, the Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and the city's symbol, will be the perfect end to your journey. After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner at Zu den 12 Aposteln or Zum Gemalten Haus, and then unwind at Rote Bar or Belfordfrankfurt to wrap up a memorable day.
Day 4: Brussels (Belgium) - Atomium, Musée Magritte Museum, Royal Palace of Brussels, Grand-Place
After an exciting day in Cologne, we will leave Germany and head to the charming city of Brussels in Belgium. The high-speed train is the perfect choice, taking around 3 hours with tickets starting at 17 USD, offering comfort and convenience. For those looking to save, the bus is a great option, costing from 14 USD and taking approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes.
In Laeken, the Atomium stands out with its design inspired by the atomic structure, becoming an iconic architectural symbol of Belgium. From the observation deck, the city’s panoramic view unfolds at a height of around 100 meters. After exploring the Atomium, head to the Musée Magritte, where you can admire the timeless works of the surrealist artist René Magritte, diving into the captivating world of surrealism.
In the afternoon, the next stop is central Brussels. The Royal Palace of Brussels, a magnificent royal palace, leaves a mark of the country's history and culture. Don’t miss the Grand-Place, a stunning central square known for its Baroque and Gothic architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, enjoy Belgian cuisine at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles or À La Mort Subite to savor the distinctive flavors of Belgium.
Day 5: Bruges (Belgium) - Basilica Of The Holy Blood, Bruges City Hall, Rozenhoedkaai, Groeninge Museum
Continuing the journey through Belgium, you will travel from Brussels to Bruges and spend the day exploring the medieval beauty of this city. Thanks to Belgium’s well-developed train system, the journey from Brussels to Bruges takes only about 1 hour. Trains depart from major stations like Bruxelles-Centrale or Bruxelles-Midi, with second-class tickets costing around 16-18 EUR one-way.
Your day in Bruges begins with a visit to the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a Gothic church famous for its sacred relics and solemn atmosphere. Next, stop by Bruges City Hall, known for its historical architectural features and intricately carved facade, reflecting the city's stunning beauty over the centuries.
In the afternoon, relax and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Rozenhoedkaai, a charming corner by the canal that feels like a painting. It’s a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the romantic vibe that Bruges is known for. Later, the Groeninge Museum will offer a memorable cultural experience with its diverse collection of art spanning from the Middle Ages to modern times. As night falls, head back to Brussels and enjoy dinner at The Lobster House or O’Reilly’s Irish Pub.
Day 6: Paris - Jardin Du Luxembourg, Sainte-Chapelle, Notre-Dame De Paris
On the 6th day of your journey, head to Paris, the dazzling capital of France, known for its rich history and culture. Travel from Brussels to Paris by Thalys, taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes with standard tickets starting from 32 USD, or opt for the budget-friendly IZY train, which takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes with fares starting from 10 EUR.
Upon arrival in Paris, start your sightseeing at the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most beautiful parks, offering a peaceful green space to relax. Next, visit Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning Gothic church renowned for its gorgeous stained glass windows and serene atmosphere.
Next on your tour, visit Notre-Dame de Paris, a magnificent cathedral with impressive architecture and a rich history. Be sure to admire the intricate sculptures on the walls and bell towers of this iconic church.
After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel for a restful evening. To cap off your day, enjoy dinner at Mumi, one of the popular restaurants in Paris. Alternatively, Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn and L'Imprévu Café are also excellent options to savor the city's signature dishes.
Day 7: Paris - Champs-Élysées, Louvre Museum, D'Orsay Museum, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe
On the seventh day of your European journey, continue exploring Paris, the romantic city filled with famous landmarks. In the morning, stroll along the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous streets in the world. Here, you'll find luxury stores and magnificent architectural structures that create a truly impressive atmosphere.
Next, visit the Louvre Museum, home to thousands of priceless works of art, including the legendary Mona Lisa. After that, head to the D'Orsay Museum to admire 19th-century masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
In the afternoon, visit the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris. From the height of 324 meters, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Don't forget to visit the Arc de Triomphe, a historic monument that commemorates military victories. In the evening, savor delicious meals at Le Marais Restaurant Paris or Le Sens Unique. Afterwards, unwind at the Prescription Cocktail Club or Le Boucan to experience Parisian nightlife.
Day 8: Amsterdam - Magere Brug, Vondelpark, Anne Frank House
On the eighth day of your European tour, you will arrive in Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, known for its many prominent attractions. To travel from Paris to Amsterdam, Thalys trains offer a convenient option. The direct train from Gare du Nord in Paris takes about hours, with comfortable seats and free Wi-Fi. Ticket prices range from 40 to 150 USD depending on the time and seat type.
Your first stop in the Netherlands is Magere Brug, a famous bridge known for its beautiful architecture, attracting many tourists for photos. Next, head to Vondelpark, a romantic and peaceful park perfect for relaxation or a leisurely walk. After that, visit the Anne Frank House, a museum that preserves the emotional story of Anne Frank and her family during the war.
In the evening, enjoy Dutch cuisine at Café Restaurant van Kerkwijk or CAU Steak Restaurant. If you're not ready to rest at the hotel yet, you can also experience the vibrant atmosphere at famous bars like Excalibur Café or Rosalia's Menagerie.
Day 9: Amsterdam - Hanoi
On your final day in Amsterdam before heading back to Hanoi, enjoy a morning of shopping in the city's popular districts. Amsterdam offers a variety of options for shopping enthusiasts, from high-end boutiques to unique markets. If you love luxury fashion, P.C. Hooftstraat in Oud-Zuid is the perfect destination, home to famous brands like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Don't miss De Bijenkorf, one of the largest department stores in Amsterdam, located right on Dam Square.
For a more interesting shopping experience, head to De Negen Straatjes, known for its small shops selling antiques, jewelry, and vintage clothing. Additionally, Spiegelkwartier is an attractive spot for antiques, paintings, and ceramics.
After your shopping, make your way to Schiphol Airport to prepare for your flight back to Hanoi. Remember to check your flight tickets and complete any necessary procedures before heading to the airport!
How much does a 9-day, 8-night trip to France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany cost?
A 9-day, 8-night trip across four countries – France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany – promises to be an unforgettable experience. Before embarking on your journey, make sure to plan your budget thoroughly to ensure a smooth trip. Here’s an estimated cost for your 9-day, 8-night European adventure for reference.
Loại chi phí | Phạm vi chi phí (VNĐ) |
Vé máy bay (khứ hồi) | 30.000.000 - 50.000.000 |
SIM 4G & Bảo hiểm | 500.000 - 700.000 |
Visa Schengen | 3.000.000 - 5.000.000 |
Chi phí di chuyển (tàu, xe bus) | 2.000.000 - 5.000.000 |
Lưu trú | 10.000.000 - 25.000.000 |
Ăn uống | 7.000.000 - 15.000.000 |
Vui chơi tham quan | 5.000.000 - 12.000.000 |
Mua sắm | 3.000.000 - 5.000.000 |
Chi phí khác | 2.000.000 - 5.000.000 |
Tổng chi phí ước tính | 62.500.000 - 122.700.000 |
(*) Note: These costs are only estimates. The actual expenses may vary depending on your choices. Be sure to plan carefully, compare prices, and book in advance to secure the best rates. It’s also wise to prepare an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.
9-Day, 8-Night Travel Tips for France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany
Proper preparation is key to a successful trip, helping you confidently explore these wonderful destinations. Here are some useful tips for your 9-day, 8-night journey through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany:
- Plan a detailed itinerary: Identify destinations, length of stay, and modes of transport ahead of time to save time.
- Book in advance: Flight tickets, train tickets, and admission tickets are often cheaper when booked months in advance.
- Use travel passes: Cards like the Eurail Pass or public transport cards in each city can significantly cut costs.
- Travel during the off-season: Visiting during spring or autumn helps you avoid the crowds and enjoy better prices.
- Learn a few local phrases: Basic communication will help you navigate or interact with locals more easily.
- Pack light: Ensure that you can easily move through train stations or airports with minimal luggage.
- Use travel apps: Google Maps, translation apps, and Mytour are valuable tools to help you find locations, book rides, and make reservations quickly!
A 9-day, 8-night trip through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany will undoubtedly offer you countless unforgettable experiences. Don't forget to check out the Mytour Blog for more travel information and explore exciting destinations across Europe: How to Buy a European Travel SIM Card for DIY travelers, Best Times to Visit Europe? European Travel Tips by Season, 15 Frankfurt Travel Spots for History Buffs, 30 Stunning Dutch Travel Destinations that Will Captivate Any Traveler, What is Schengen Visa? Latest Schengen Visa Application Procedures,...
Embark on your 9-day, 8-night journey through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany today!
