So… you want to visit Northern Europe? You’ve narrowed it down but you’re still wondering “Should I visit Belgium or the Netherlands?” Lucky for you, after reading through this article you’ll have a better idea of which country is a better fit for the type of vacation you want.
Below we will go through various travel styles and which country fits that style better. Not all these travel styles are applicable to everyone.
So find the topics that are important to you, and assign a “1” to the country that is better for that style, and a “0” to the other country. Add up your results when you get to the end of the article and voila, you know if you’ll be visiting Belgium or the Netherlands!
I lived in the Netherlands for four years and spent significant time traveling around each country. Both countries have their strengths and weaknesses, but both are a fantastic place to base a vacation in northern Europe. Let’s start with a quick history lesson then we will get into the comparison between Belgium and the Netherlands.
- A Quick History Lesson
- Belgium vs The Netherlands – A Travel Comparison
- You want to go city hopping
- Your are a nature lover
- It’s not a vacation without a beach
- You’re a history buff
- Travel budget is of vital importance
- You love relaxation
- You are a foodie
- You love trying all the local beers
- Immersion in local culture is vital to your experience
- Beautiful Instagram photos are what you care about
- Nightlife is a necessity
- Palaces, castles, and cathedrals are your top priority
- You’re an art aficionado
- Belgium vs Netherlands – FAQs
- Final Word
Netherlands travel guides:
- 7-Day Netherlands Travel Itinerary
- Amsterdam Local’s Guide
- Day Trips from Amsterdam
- Giethoorn, Netherlands
- Top 25 Amsterdam Travel Tips
Belgium Travel Guides:
A Quick History Lesson
Culturally, Belgium and the Netherlands are very similar. In fact, they were the same country for a while. European history can be summarized by one kingdom invading and controlling another for thousands of years.
If we skip ahead to the days of Napoleon, modern day Belgium and the Netherlands were controlled by France. If you’ve ever wondered why Dutch last names are so silly, it’s because they didn’t have last names until the French forced them to invent their own on the spot.
The United Kingdom of the Netherlands was formed after the expulsion of Napoleon and the French in 1815. This kingdom consisted of present day Belgium and the Netherlands, and it stayed this way until the Southern Netherlands – aka Belgium – revolted from their northern leadership to form their own country. The Kingdom of Belgium declared independence in 1830 and has remained a sovereign state to this day.
Over the last 200 years the countries have developed independently and while they are still quite similar, they have diverged in numerous ways.
Belgium does not have its own language, instead having three official languages. The northern part of the country speaks Dutch (Flemish dialect), the southern part speaks French, and a small portion of eastern Belgium speaks German.
In the Netherlands the only official language is Dutch, though English is widely spoken in both countries.
These days, the countries are good friends and politically almost indistinguishable. Both are members of the EU and Schengen Zone. The EU is even headquartered in Belgium. Both countries have strong economies and foster innovative businesses. Tourism is an important sector in each country, but neither rely on it (like Greece or Italy perhaps).
Belgium vs The Netherlands – A Travel Comparison
Now let’s get to the good stuff. Below we will run through numerous different travel styles and preferences and then determine whether Belgium or the Netherlands is better fit. Here we go!
You want to go city hopping
European cities are magical. Even the most outdoorsy traveler in the world loves old cities in Europe. Both Belgium and the Netherlands have historic old cities.
In Belgium, Brussels is the capital and largest city. It’s the crossroads of Dutch-speaking Belgium and French-speaking Belgium and consequently has a mix of Dutch and French architecture. Belgium also has some of the most beautiful cities in Europe in Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp and Liege.
In the Netherlands, all roads lead to Amsterdam. Amsterdam is without a doubt one of the most breathtakingly beautiful cities on the planet. Narrow old brick houses line man made canals like something out of a fairy tale. But outside of Amsterdam, it’s hard to argue that any other cities in the Netherlands are world-class.
I lived in Haarlem and Groningen (as well as Amsterdam) and I can’t sit here and tell you that those cities are in the same league as Bruges or Ghent. The Hague and Utrecht are lovely (Rotterdam looks more like a New World city thanks to Nazi bombing in WW2), but yet again the Belgian cities are just on a different tier.
Verdict: Belgium
If hopping between beautiful, historic cities is your primary goal for your northern Europe trip, Belgium beats the Netherlands here. Though you should add at least 2 nights in Amsterdam to any Belgium itinerary. Getting between the Belgian cities and Amsterdam is incredibly easy by train.
Your are a nature lover
If getting out into nature is your #1 priority on vacation, then I’m afraid you’ve come to the wrong place. The Netherlands is notoriously flat and Belgium is also topographically challenged.
Nature in the Netherlands means forests without a single hill or sand dunes along the coast. The sand dunes at Zuid-Kennenmerland National Park outside of Haarlem are quite nice, but they’re not the Alps.
Belgium is also mostly flat, but has some rolling hills in the south and east. The most beautiful part of Belgium is the winding Meuse River near the French border. Here you’ll find the village of Dinant, with its medieval fortress sitting atop a steep cliff that rises out of the river.
Numerous other castles can be found along the river. While it’s not quite as beautiful as the Mosel River in Germany, it’s still a popular place for locals and tourists alike to get a break from the city.
Verdict: Belgium
Neither country is great for nature, but if you need some hiking on your trip, Belgium takes the cake here.
It’s not a vacation without a beach
Newsflash: Northern Europe is not the best place to base a beach vacation. Maybe you mean to go to Greece or Italy? But if a day at the beach is important to you on a summer trip to Europe, both Belgium and the Netherlands offer various opportunities for catching some rays.
Belgium doesn’t have a whole lot of coastline, but does have plenty of public beaches along its 30 mile stretch of the North Sea. The Netherlands, on the other hand, has a ton of North Sea coastline and a lot of infrastructure around its beaches.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, the popular beach area of Zandvoort aan Zee is only a 30-minute train ride away. The beach is deep and lined with bars and restaurants. While no one would describe the water as beautiful, a day at the Dutch beach is actually a lot of fun. And with summer sunsets after 10:00 PM, an evening dinner on the beach is a great way to end a day exploring Amsterdam.
Verdict: The Netherlands
No beach vacation should be based in either country, but if you want to add a day or evening at the beach into your vacation, the Netherlands is your best bet.
You’re a history buff
Both Belgium and the Netherlands have a rich history, some of which we went through already. In terms of events with global significance, however, the Netherlands has been more in the spotlight, mainly – and unfortunately – due to WW2.
Both countries were invaded and occupied by the Nazis in 1940, but the story of one Jewish girl in Amsterdam became world famous after the war. You can visit the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, just be sure to book well in advance.
There is a lot more WW2 history to see in the Netherlands as well – though not nearly as much as Normandy in France. The city of Rotterdam was totally decimated by Nazi bombing, which is why it looks more modern than other Dutch cities.
In the eastern town of Overloon, a fierce tank battle took place that is now memorialized in the Overloon War Museum. More recently, the Netherlands became the first country to legalize same-sex marriage and has significant history around LGBTQ rights.
Verdict: The Netherlands
The Dutch have been a little more on the world stage when it comes to history and Amsterdam will satisfy any history buff’s needs.
Travel budget is of vital importance
Affordability is a concern to just about everyone when traveling. Luckily, both Belgium and the Netherlands are not too pricey overall. That being said, the cities with high volumes of tourists are significantly more expensive than places that do not receive as many tourists.
In the Netherlands, Amsterdam is the most expensive place to visit, as well as to live. And for good reason. It’s the most visited place in the Netherlands and the most sought after destination for expats to live. Hotels are very expensive and food and drink prices can be similar to those in large US cities.
Outside of Amsterdam, however, prices drop significantly. Busy cities like Rotterdam and the Hague can still be pricey, but in general are pretty affordable. Smaller cities and places that tourists don’t usually go, like Tilburg or Breda can seem downright cheap.
In Belgium, it’s the same story. Bruges is the most sought after tourist destination in the country and also the most expensive city for hotels, food, and other services. Brussels is cheaper than Bruges but not by much. Ghent and Antwerp are more affordable, but you’re not going to be bragging to your friends about how great of a deal you got.
Cost of holiday is relative, however. If you’re from the United States and you’re used to paying $250/night for a basic hotel in tourist hotbeds like Cleveland and St. Louis (no offense Cleveland and St. Louis), you’ll find both the Netherlands and Belgium quite affordable.
If you’re from southern Europe, which is overall far cheaper than northern Europe, you will have to watch what you spend your money on.
Verdict: draw
Overall affordability is about the same in each country. If your trip to the Netherlands is just Amsterdam, however, it will feel more expensive than Belgium.
You love relaxation
If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday then neither of these countries is really going to fit the bill. There is simply too much to see and do to really get away from it all. Neither is particularly known for beautiful resorts in the way that Mediterranean destinations are. And the weather in Northern Europe is not exactly blue skies and sunshine all summer.
Amsterdam has its fair share of luxury hotels and boutiques. So do the Belgian cities, though. You can find a few relaxing resorts in the countryside as well. Just don’t expect a Club Med.
Verdict: draw
Neither Belgium or the Netherlands is known for relaxing get-away-from-everything holidays. There are just too many things to see and do on a trip to this part of the world.
You are a foodie
If you love to eat and get local delicacies wherever you travel, then you might not have come to as bad a place as you might think. Both Belgium and the Netherlands have unique culinary creations that you’ll be dying to try.
Belgium is world famous for chocolate, waffles, and French fries. Not exactly a well-balanced diet, but when in Belgium you’ll have to try each at least once. They also have delicious stews made with everything from beef to rabbit leg.
The Netherlands has brought the world stroopwafels and fried balls of mystery meat – otherwise known as bitterballen. They also supply the planet with a ridiculous amount of cheese. Even though there’s really no such thing as Dutch cuisine, you’ll eat just fine on a trip to the Netherlands.
Verdict: Belgium
While the Netherlands has some interesting culinary inventions, the food in Belgium will please your palate more.
You love trying all the local beers
Belgium is so synonymous with beer that they have their own unique beer style. Breweries around the world make Belgian style beers. These beer styles are mainly dubbles, triples, and blondes, and they are known for being incredibly strong (high alcohol percentage).
There’s no Miller Lite on a Belgian beer menu. For such a small county, Belgium has a ridiculous amount of breweries. Most are outside the main tourist centers, but beer cafes across Belgium carry hundreds of different local beers.
At the same time, the Netherlands is vastly under appreciated when it comes to beer. While everyone has heard of Heineken, the Netherlands is one of Europe’s leading craft brewing countries. There are a ton of amazing breweries in Amsterdam.
The craft beer styles in the Netherlands are more akin to American beer styles than Belgian styles, but the Dutch breweries can cook up some fine Belgian style ales too.
Verdict: Belgium
Both countries made my list of the 10 Best Countries in the World for Beer Enthusiasts. If you’re looking for IPAs, sours, and stouts, you’re better suited for Dutch beer. But it’s hard to not give this category to a country that literally has its own beer style and has greatly influenced the world of brewing.
Immersion in local culture is vital to your experience
Immersing yourself in local culture is an important part of any trip to a new country. Unless you’re one of those tourists who stops by TGI Fridays everywhere you visit, you’re probably looking to get a taste of what it’s like to live in the country you’re visiting or to learn about the ancient ways of past generations. For this, both Belgium and the Netherlands have pluses and minuses.
For a local experience, you’ll need to get outside of the typical tourist destinations in each country. Both countries are very modern and developed and finding an authentic cultural experience is tough to come by. Even the cheese markets in the Netherlands are solely put on for the sake of tourists these days.
Smaller Dutch cities can give a glimpse into life as an everyday Dutchman, though the same can be said about smaller Belgian cities.
Verdict: Netherlands
It’s a close call, but the Netherlands has more things – like ancient windmills and tulip fields – that feel more “Dutch” than chocolatiers and breweries feel “Belgian.” Either way, neither country is particularly great for immersion in local culture.
Beautiful Instagram photos are what you care about
Let’s face it, many people these days are all about the photos. There’s nothing wrong with that, and you’ve come to the right place for ridiculously nice photos (so long as the weather is good!).
When considering “Instagrammable” places in Belgium or the Netherlands, Belgium actually has more options. Bruges and Ghent each have numerous spots for photos that will fill your friends with envy. Antwerp and Brussels have a few too, even if the photos might not be as appreciated.
In the Netherlands, we are mainly talking about Amsterdam, windmills and flower fields. Other Dutch cities have nice spots, but nothing as instantly recognizable as a bicycle-lined bridge in Amsterdam or a colorful windmill in Zaanse Schans. Instagrammable photos in Amsterdam are a dime a dozen though. You’ll never run out of spots in this beautiful city to photograph.
Verdict: Netherlands
While the smaller Belgian cities have some fabulous spots for photo ops, it’s tough to beat out Amsterdam when it comes to beautiful photos.
Nightlife is a necessity
Partying can play an integral role in any trip, especially if you’re still young or don’t have children. Amsterdam is one of the top party locations in the world. With hundreds of bars and nightclubs, you can always find a place to get your groove on in Amsterdam. And in the summer, festivals take over the city, with DJs and dance parties almost 24 hours a day.
Amsterdam is such a popular destination for people to go party that the city government has started a campaign to discourage visitors from coming just to get wasted in the red light district. The rest of the country has its own share of parties and festivals. So even outside of Amsterdam there are plenty of opportunities to party.
While Belgium has its share of clubs and parties, it’s more of a laid back beer cafe culture. There are some super fun bars in Brussels, like the Delirium Café, but you won’t see as many strips of bars with people overflowing into the streets.
Verdict: Netherlands
Amsterdam has a better nightlife scene than anywhere in Belgium. Just don’t visit the city solely to get wasted (I say the same thing about Las Vegas)
Palaces, castles, and cathedrals are your top priority
While European cities are known for many things, incredible palaces, medieval castles and gothic cathedrals might be what really sets them apart from other continents. Most European cities have at least one major palace, a few massive cathedrals and a castle somewhere near the edge of town. Belgian and Dutch cities are no exception.
In Belgium you will find the Royal Palace of Brussels and Palace op de Meir in Antwerp, among others. The main palaces in the Netherlands are the King’s Palace in Amsterdam and Noordeinde Palace in The Hague.
Belgium has more castles per capita than anywhere else in Europe and you’ll find epic castles throughout the country, like Gravensteen in Ghent or Walzin Castle near Dinant.
In the Netherlands the main castles are de Haar outside of Utrecht and Muiderslot outside Amsterdam. The Belgian castles are a bit grander, though neither can compare to the castles along the Mosel River in Germany.
When it comes to cathedrals the countries are pretty well-matched overall, though Belgian cities like Ghent and Bruges have far more beautiful and well known churches. Especially Ghent, which has more church bell towers than you can shake a stick at.
Verdict: Belgium
While the Netherlands has its fair share of awesome palaces, castles and cathedrals, Belgium takes the crown in this category.
You’re an art aficionado
When it comes to art it’s tough to beat the Netherlands. Some of the most influential painters in history are Dutch. While Belgium has had its fair share of influential painters and artists over the centuries, they don’t quite compare to household names like Rembrandt and Van Gogh.
A museum tour of Amsterdam is like a walk through Dutch Golden Age painting history. Rembrandt and Van Gogh even have entire museums dedicated to them. Many other famous paintings are featured in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, as well as various other museums around the country.
Verdict: Netherlands
If you’re all about the art, the Netherlands is where you want to be. Maybe add on a trip to Paris or Florence too to really get your creative mind moving.
Belgium vs Netherlands – FAQs
Is it cheaper to visit Belgium or the Netherlands?
It’s about the same price overall to visit either country. Both have overpriced touristy cities – Amsterdam and Bruges – and both have affordable small towns that are also lovely to visit. Living in the Netherlands is a bit costlier, but you won’t feel this as a tourist.
What is the difference between Belgium and the Netherlands?
Aside from the fact that they are two distinct independent countries, the main difference is that Belgium is more culturally diverse, which both French and Dutch influence. Whereas the Netherlands is super Dutch to the core. The Dutch don’t even allow dual citizenship (except by marriage). You’re either fully Dutch or to hell with you!
What city is in both Belgium and the Netherlands?
The town of Baarle-Nassau is literally in both Belgium and the Netherlands. While the town is in the Netherlands, a few kilometers from the main Belgian border, it contains almost 30 Belgian enclaves within the city. The Belgian enclaves are called Baarle-Hertog. And to make it more confusing, there are even Dutch enclaves inside the Belgian enclaves. Makes total sense, right?
Which is better to visit, Brussels or Amsterdam?
Amsterdam. Next question.
Are Belgians and the Dutch friendly to foreigners?
The Belgians and the Dutch are both friendly to foreigners for the most part. They’re actually friendlier to visitors than expats. But in general Northern Europeans are not the most outgoing, hospitable people. Don’t expect to get invited back to a local’s house for dinner like might happen somewhere like Georgia or Italy.
Final Word
So what was your final score? If all the categories listed are important to you we end up with a score of 7 for Belgium and 8 for the Netherlands. So it’s pretty damn close! Both Belgium and the Netherlands have brought the world so many great things are a ton of fun to visit.
If you have the luxury of time, why not include both countries on your trip? Belgium and the Netherlands are so small that it’s easy to see the main highlights in a 7 to 10 day trip. Enjoy your jaunt around Northern Europe!
